The Gospel Brings Responsibility
Anton Bosch teaches that the gospel brings a solemn responsibility to respond, warning that rejection of God's kingdom message results in greater judgment.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and the consequences of indifference to the gospel message. It delves into the rejection of the gospel by cities and nations, highlighting the need for genuine repentance and a change of heart. The speaker draws parallels between biblical cities like Sodom, Tyre, and Sidon, and modern-day indifference to the gospel in the Western world, particularly in the United States. The message stresses the significance of personal repentance and the church's role in reflecting true faith and obedience.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Sending of the Seventy
- Jesus appoints seventy followers to preach and heal
- They are sent out with minimal provisions, trusting God
- Their mission is to proclaim the kingdom of God
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II. The Kingdom of God Has Come Near
- The kingdom is spiritual and present through the gospel
- Preaching brings the kingdom near to every city
- The kingdom is accessible but requires a response
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III. Rejection and Judgment
- Cities rejecting the gospel face severe judgment
- More tolerable for Sodom than for cities rejecting God’s message
- Degrees of judgment based on knowledge and response
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IV. Application for Today
- The gospel continues to bring the kingdom near
- Individuals, not cities, are saved or condemned
- Believers must faithfully respond and proclaim the gospel
Key Quotes
“The kingdom of God has come near every city that has heard the gospel of the kingdom, whether it was just two of these witnesses that had gone into that city.” — Anton Bosch
“If that happens to you, you need to shake off the dust. ... It has to be dusted off. It has to be washed off. It has to be discarded.” — Anton Bosch
“It will be more tolerable for Sodom than for that city. ... There are degrees of judgment.” — Anton Bosch
Application Points
- Trust God to provide as you faithfully share the gospel in your community.
- Understand that rejecting the gospel carries serious eternal consequences.
- Recognize that salvation is personal and respond individually to God’s call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that the kingdom of God has come near?
It means the spiritual reign of God is accessible through the preaching of the gospel, making salvation available to all who believe.
Why is judgment more severe for cities that reject the gospel?
Because they have heard the message and rejected it, their accountability is greater than those who have never heard.
Are entire cities or nations saved according to this sermon?
No, only individuals are saved or condemned; cities represent the majority response but are not saved as entities.
What is the significance of shaking off the dust?
It symbolizes rejecting and not carrying any association or contamination from a city that rejects the gospel.
How should believers today respond to this message?
Believers should faithfully preach the gospel, trust God for provision, and understand the seriousness of accepting or rejecting the kingdom.