August 10

Here is the third piece of armor in the Christian's protection-- a spiritual shoe, fitted to his foot and designed to be worn as long as he battles sin and Satan. "And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace." (Ephesians 6:15). Let us now study three distinct terms from Scripture concerning this shoe: first what is meant by the Gospel; second, what is meant by peace; and third, what the word feet means here, as well as the grace intended by the preparation of the gospel of peace.

Gospel, according to the meaning of the original word, signifies good news or joyful message. Usually in Scripture the word is reserved for the doctrine of Christ and His salvation. "I bring you good tidings of great joy," said the angel to the shepherds (Luke 2:10). And then he added, "Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord" (v.11). Thus Gospel in the New Testament generally carries the connotation of joy and good news, and we shall use that same meaning here.

The revelation of Christ and the grace of God through Him is, without compare, the best news a sinner can hear. It is such a unique message that no good news can come before it nor bad news can follow. God's mercy precedes His blessing to sinners: "God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us" (Psalm 67:1).

Until God mercifully pardons our sins through Christ He cannot look kindly on us sinners. All our benefits are but blessings in bullion until Gospel grace-- pardoning mercy-- stamps them with salvation and makes them current. God cannot show any good will until Christ makes peace for us; "On earth peace, good will toward men" (Luke 2:14). And what joy would it be, even to the sinner who inherited a kingdom, if he could not claim it from the joy and favor of God's heart?

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