Good News, Bad News
WE'VE GOT GOOD NEWS…
"I am not ashamed of the gospel, …it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…" Romans 1:16
Paul summarized his case for Christ to the Roman church with, 'I am not ashamed (embarrassed) of the gospel (Good News). It was no coincidence that his message was given to the eventual seat of religion (works). For Paul, the only way to God, and the salvation we need from sin, was through Jesus Christ. The caveat to salvation is it is not by our works, but our belief in the work of Jesus. But this righteousness is given to us only if we put our faith in Him. This is why the news is so good - it is already done for us.
"Jesus answered, 'The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent." John 6:29 Because people have been programed by religion, they struggle with the simple 'chore' of just believing. Religion uses shame to brow beat people into following the rules. Again, Jesus fulfilled all the rules, alleviating the need for shame. This was why Paul was not ashamed - Jesus had set him free. This freedom is available to us, but only if we choose to rely on Jesus Christ for salvation.
…AND BAD NEWS…
"The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them." Romans 1:18-19
The truth is, no matter how much people, out of pride, posture and protest, God has made Himself known to all people. Some will try to argue this, but the Bible is clear, 'God has made it plain to them'. As a result, Romans 1:20 says, they are 'without EXCUSE'. So all the arguments of God's existence or of His authority, are vain attempts to suppress (hide, push down, do away with) the truth - God truly does exist and we will give an answer to Him. The good news is anyone can choose the Good News.
"God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ." I Thess. 5:9