And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Acts 20:22-24

We’ve been looking at three ways Paul described following and serving the Lord: finishing the race—well; serving in the ministry; testifying to the gospel of the grace of God. Last time we answered the question: What is the gospel? This time: How are we to testify of the gospel?

The most essential way believers are to testify of the gospel of the grace of God is to be sure we understand it so that we can communicate it to others. Sadly, many believers think they are testifying of the gospel by inviting people to church or encouraging them to clean up some area in their lives that is particularly sinful. Neither of those is the gospel. Unsure what the gospel is? Go back and read yesterday’s blog. Those are the essential components of the gospel.

A simple way of remembering the gospel is the “Three Rs.” (1) All people are RUINED by sin. (2) Jesus is the only REMEDY for our sin. (3) Each must RECEIVE Christ (by trusting in Him and repenting of sin).

Getting the gospel straight, even when stating it as simply as the Three Rs, is essential because the gospel (not how beautifully we explain it) is the power of God to salvation (Romans 1:16).

Yes, we are to live exemplary Christian lives, but no matter how we live, our example can save no one. To be saved, people need to hear the gospel. So tell the gospel—and then live an exemplary Christian life, not instead of telling the gospel, but to validate that you believe it!