“And the news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding countryside” (Luke 7:17 NLT).
After Jesus interrupted a funeral procession to raise a widow’s son from the dead, the news of his miracles and teachings spread throughout Judea and the whole vicinity. This illustrates a truth easily discovered anywhere humans dwell, namely, news spreads. Whether it’s good or bad news, people love to talk about the latest happenings.
The gospel is good news. The gospel begins to spread when it happens afresh in someone’s life. Whenever the word gets out that someone has believed the gospel and experienced the kind of life change that only comes from Jesus, it becomes fresh news. As news of miraculous life change is shared, a doorway of spiritual opportunity is opened. The good news is shared and people believe.
Imagine what it would look like for people who don’t even yet know Jesus to start talking about him. Instead of the weather or the latest sports update, what would it take to see a world abuzz with gospel conversations? I suppose someone has to start spreading the good news.
PRAYER: Dear Father, empower us with your Spirit to be witnesses of what Christ has done in our lives. Draw people to yourself to heal those who are hurting and to set free those in bondage. May the news of your Son be on everyone’s lips. We would desire to see you move in our city, so that the good news spreads throughout. In Jesus’ name, amen.