The Gospel Today

In casual philosophy it seem that there are four questions which are commonly asked: First poverty/prosperity, how shall we achieve prosperity in our country. Second the existential/social question, how should we, or more commonly, everyone (else) behave. Thirdly justice, what about inequality and injustice. And finally politics, who will lead our country to achieve prosperity and justice.

The gospel declares an answer: Jesus. Jesus will be/is king, a good and wise king. Surely this is the perfect solution to politics. Jesus demands our obedience. But again He is good and wise, so this demand is the perfect answer to the existential and social question. However not everyone will do this, a fact many philosophies forget/ignore, and even those who do will not do it perfectly. Jesus has asked the Father who has sent the spirit to help us in obedience. This gives the perfect "if we all did... the world would be a better place", however God has made this possible through the Spirit.

Next Jesus has promised to come again to decisively bring about justice. This, with His wise and good kingship, is the perfect answer to politics.

Finally when Jesus returns in triumph God will complete His glorious work of recreation. This work has begun. This is the ultimate cure to poverty and unhappiness.

Indeed Jesus is the beginning, the first taste, of our hope. However our hope, indeed the gospel, is so much more than merely the solution to the problems of the world! Yes we are cleansed of corruption and given a resoled world under a good ruler but more than that we will be with God, three and one, loving and glorious, our purpose and our Lover, and we will be His temple and His bride!

The gospel is eminently applicable today! Oh LORD, grant me wisdom to understand and boldness to act. Oh LORD make me gentle even as You are gentle. Thank You for Your gospel! The plans are of the LORD are perfect giving light to the eyes and joy to the heart!