The Message and Messenger

There is the good news of salvation through Jesus! The apostle Paul writes about our importance in receiving this message.

ROMANS 10:14-17

“How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!” But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (New King James Version)

Receiving

As Paul speaks about the importance of receiving the message of good news, He links back to the vivid imagery of the prophet Isaiah.

ISAIAH 52:7

“How beautiful upon the mountains Are the feet of him who brings good news, Who proclaims peace, Who brings glad tidings of good things, Who proclaims salvation, Who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!”

Mountains surrounded Jerusalem. A messenger coming to the city would have to cross over the rugged terrain of the mountains and descend to the city. Watchmen would have been posted along the city walls to keep an eye out for attack (ref. Isaiah. 52:8). They would have been the first to see the feet of a messenger crossing over the mountains. Isaiah speaks about the beauty of those who bring the good news of salvation. Who, though, will believe the message (ref. Isa. 53:1)?

We send letters and messages to share news, tell about events, or let someone know we think of them. Messages and messengers are sent with information to share. The good news of salvation through Jesus is a message to be sent and shared. “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” (Rom. 10:14). Like the messengers who would cross the mountains of Jerusalem, today, messengers are needed to share the news of salvation and peace that comes through Jesus.

Who will believe?

As Isaiah continues (ref. Isa. 53), the prophet speaks of a Servant who would suffer. He describes how God will ultimately reconcile and restore His people through this Suffering-Servant. The power to redeem and save is not shown in great military strength but through One who would be beaten and rejected. One who will be afflicted, wounded, and bruised for the transgressions of His people. Like a lamb led to the slaughter, or as a sheep that is silent before its shearers, this Servant will not resist the evil placed on Him. Instead, the Servant will give His life to save many lives.

How upside-down this seems! Power is not usually seen in humility. However, this is how the Lord will stretch out His arm to rescue His people.

Responding

Paul returns to question [W]ho will believe this message of hope and peace? The announcement of the King has come. The Lord has come to rule, reign, and inaugurate His kingdom of peace. Like the watchmen of Isaiah, we need to be looking for the messenger, ready to receive the message of King Jesus. Jesus has come to rescue, redeem, and save people and a world in distress. First, however, we must be ready to receive the message delivered through His word.

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Unless otherwise noted: Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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