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Published monthly by the West Side Church of Christ

“I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ:  for it is  the Power of God unto Salvation to every one that  believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1: 16)


The Greek word for “power” is dunamis.  According to W.E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary it “denotes inherent ability, capability, ability to perform anything; the power to carry something into effect.”   The ability to accomplish salvation is inherent in the “gospel of Christ.”  God’s power is found in the preaching of the gospel (I Corinthians 1:18) He has no other source to bring salvation.  All who are saved will be saved by the Gospel (II Thessalonians 1:8; I Peter 4:7).


“Gospel” means “good news” and refers to the message concerning Christ’s atoning death, foretold burial, and triumphant resurrection (I Corinthians 15:1-4).  When people respond in faith to this message they may find salvation.  Only by hearing the “good news” can salvation come (Acts 15: 7; Romans 10: 13-17).  


“How shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?” (Romans 10:14-15).  But “obeying the gospel” implies more than an admission of faith.  One must obey the gospel  which is believed.  Salvation is ascribed to those who “shall call upon the name of the Lord” (Romans 10: 13).  The apostle Paul in his own conversion was told, “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16).  Paul was saved when he “obeyed the gospel of Christ” calling upon His name in baptism.  We, too, must respond to God’s only Power unto Salvation with faith and obedience.


Larry Albritton

God’s Power To Save