The word “gospel” comes from the Greek word euaggelizo from which we get our word “evangelism.” It literally means, “to announce good news.” We would all agree that the gospel is “good news.”

The apostle Paul said in I Corinthians 1:18, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish, foolishness; but unto us which are saved, it is the power of God.”
The death, burial and resurrection of Christ are the greatest news ever as seen in today’s verse. I would like to take a journey into the Old Testament for the next couple of days. Please read II Kings 7:3-11.

We find “four leprous men” who declare in 7:9 what may be true today of many believers, “We do not well (are not doing right). This day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace (remain silent).”

This is the story of a military siege, or the devastation of starving people and the grace of the Lord.

It is a tale of four desperate lepers, the divinely amplified sound of their march and the terrified retreat of an army. It speaks of the spoils of war, the greed of men and the good sense to share the Lord’s blessings.

Let’s explore this ancient story together and learn some 21st century principles of the gospel message. Our story really begins back in II Kings 6. Would you please read chapters six and seven before tomorrow? Let’s prepare to share, not be silent.