proclaiming the Gospel as the only hope
Matthew 24:14 - And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.
Romans 8:18-25 - 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. 20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. 22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? 25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
All teaching (weekend sermons, small group studies, classes, community-wide seminars, children’s education, etc.) being centered around the Gospel about Jesus Christ and our place in that story. The gospel is the only answer to all problems and when experienced, is the only source of true, lasting joy. This is more than a cranial understanding of the Gospel, though (although that is important). The Gospel is active. We find ourselves in the midst of God’s story and purpose. When we love our neighbors, help the poor, or seek restoration and reconciliation, we do so not to feel good about ourselves or to try and earn God’s favor. We do these type of things because we love Jesus, and more importantly, because he loves us. We reflect his love when people see his love in us, and they can experience the renewal and fullness the Gospel brings.