In the vast and often unpredictable landscapes of the western United States, wildfires can start from the smallest spark, quickly spreading across miles of terrain, consuming everything in their path. This imagery serves as a powerful metaphor for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Just as a single spark can ignite a massive fire, the message of the Gospel has the power to spread rapidly and transform lives. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we believe in the mission to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” and this begins with sharing the Good News.
The Urgency of the Gospel
Jesus understood the urgency of spreading the Gospel. In the sermon, we are reminded of His commitment to tell as many people as possible about the Kingdom of God. This echoes the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” The Gospel is not a message to be kept to ourselves; it is a transformative truth meant to be shared with the world. Jesus’ life and ministry were dedicated to spreading this message, and He calls us to do the same.
The Power of a Spark
The old campfire song, “It Only Takes a Spark,” beautifully illustrates how sharing the Gospel can ignite faith in others. Just as a small flame can grow into a roaring fire, a single act of sharing the Gospel can lead to a chain reaction of faith and transformation. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” This verse underscores the power and universality of the Gospel message. It is a message that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, capable of reaching the hearts of people everywhere.
Application: At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to the mission of “Share to know and love others.” This means actively looking for opportunities to share our faith stories and the message of Jesus with those around us. Whether it’s a conversation with a neighbor, a testimony shared at work, or a simple act of kindness, each moment is an opportunity to be a spark that spreads the Gospel. We encourage our congregation to engage in community outreach, participate in mission trips, and support evangelistic efforts both locally and globally. By doing so, we fulfill our calling to be ambassadors for Christ, as described in 2 Corinthians 5:20.
Conclusion: The Gospel is a powerful message that has the potential to change lives and communities. As followers of Christ, we are called to be the sparks that ignite the fire of faith in others. Let us embrace this mission with passion and urgency, knowing that God can use our small acts of sharing to create a widespread impact for His Kingdom. As we go forth, let us remember that it only takes a spark to get a fire going, and soon all those around will warm up to its glowing. Together, we can be the change that reflects the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
