Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 15:1-7; 1 Peter 3:18; John 17:3; Luke 23:39-43; Revelation 21:1-4; Philippians 2:6-8; Isaiah 53

Intro: What would it take to radically change your core beliefs and alliances, like Saul becoming Paul? An encounter with the risen Christ. Today, we remember the gospel (1 Cor 15) – not just good advice for living, but the world-changing good news of what God has done for us in Jesus, culminating in His resurrection.

Key Points:

1. Gospel: News, Not Advice: Christianity isn't primarily instructions on how to live better (good advice); it's the announcement of a historical event – Christ's life, death, and resurrection – that changes everything (good news). We constantly need reminding because we default to earning God's favor ("ladder") instead of receiving His grace ("cross").
2. Core of the Gospel (1 Cor 15): Paul reminds us of the essentials received and passed on: Christ died for our sins according to God's scriptural plan (Isa 53), was buried, and physically rose again according to Scripture, appearing to hundreds of eyewitnesses. This is a verifiable event.
3. Achievement of the Gospel: Christ's death and resurrection weren't meaningless; they achieved specific things: forgiveness of sins, removal of God's wrath, reconciliation, purchase of eternal life.
4. The Ultimate Gift is God Himself: While forgiveness and eternal life are amazing results, the greatest gift of the gospel is relational: we get God Himself. Forgiveness brings us to God (1 Pet 3:18). Eternal life is knowing God (John 17:3). Heaven is paradise because He dwells there (Rev 21:3). The goal isn't just benefits, but God Himself.
5. Desiring the Giver, Not Just Gifts: Do we primarily want God, or just what He offers (forgiveness, heaven, blessing)? Like seeking reconciliation with a spouse because you want them back, not just to ease guilt or get benefits. We must treasure Christ above His gifts.
6. Life WITH God: The gospel offers life with God – intimate, present relationship – not just life from Him (benefits) or for Him (duty).
7. God Wants YOU, As Is: Just as we must desire God, the incredible news is He desires us. He takes us "as is," fully aware of our flaws, confident in His power to redeem and restore (Phil 2:6-8). He doesn't just want changed behavior; He wants us.

Conclusion: The gospel's core is the resurrected Christ offering us not just forgiveness or eternal life, but Himself. He desires relationship with you, taking you "as is." The ultimate question isn't just "Do you want heaven?" but "Do you want God?"

Call to Action:

• Remember the gospel daily – focus on what Christ has done.
• Examine your heart: Do you desire God Himself above His gifts?
• Embrace God's desire for you – receive His acceptance "as is."
• Respond to His invitation: Say "Yes, I want You, God."
• Practice life with God, cultivating relationship and presence.

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