"So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also." - Romans 1:15

Just about everyone has their own favorite version of the Gospel.

Some prefer Luke's version, with his exclusive parables such as the Prodigal Son. Others like Matthew's Gospel the best, particularly enjoying his writing on the birth of Christ. And, of course, some like the Gospel according to John as their favorite, slightly different from the others but in perfect harmony. Still others prefer Mark's "snapshots" of the Lord in action.

There are differences and similarities within these four versions of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The important thing is that they all tell the story of Jesus, albeit in their own language, viewpoint and style.

You know, the Gospel according to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John aren't the only versions of the Gospel available. Every Christian has their version to tell. And it is written in their own language, viewpoint and style -- written by the very words they use and the very actions they exhibit.

I wonder, what does the Gospel according to YOU say to those around you?

Does it tell the story of Jesus? Does it share His love? Does it point to His gift of salvation and eternal life? Is it in Harmony with the other Gospels?

Or, does it neglect to tell the story of Jesus? Does it neglect to share His love with others? Is it silent about the gift of salvation and eternal life? Do the things your life says and does conflict with God's Word written in the Gospels and the rest of the Bible?

You see, our very lives are OUR version of the Gospel. In fact, for some people, we may be the only glimmer of Jesus that they ever see. Some people may never darken the door of a church, but they do see our lives on display at work with them. Some people may never hear a preacher share the Good News, but they can see and hear it live out in our own actions. Some people will never read Matthew, Mark, Luke or John's version of the Gospel...

...but they will read how the Gospel according to you and I appears in our actions and words.

I wonder again, what does the Gospel according to YOU say to those around you?

This devotional was written by Jimmy D. Brown and reprinted by permission.
©2001 Jimmy D. Brown.

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