The Power of the Gospel - Rev. Bonnymatt Anigbo

Rev. Bonnymatt Anigbo

Rev. Bonnymatt Anigbo delivering the Word reminds us that beyond human effort, God’s message wields true authority. In Romans 1:16 the Apostle Paul emphasises that “the gospel is the power of God” for salvation to everyone who believes. This teaches us that our strength doesn’t come from programs or self-effort, but from the good news of Jesus Christ itself. 

Ephesians 6:13 urges us to take up the whole armor of God so we can stand firm when challenges come. Notice that among our spiritual armor is the “sword of the Spirit,” identified as the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). Jesus Himself showed this principle: He defeated every challenge by quoting Scripture (Matthew 4:4–10) rather than relying on His own plan. In the same way, the gospel of Christ carries divine power that conquers sin and fear.

Prayer and Fasting: Powerful Disciplines

Prayer and fasting are vital spiritual disciplines, but they serve a different purpose than the gospel. They prepare our hearts and draw us closer to God. These practices are powerful, but they don’t carry the saving power of the gospel by themselves. For example:

• Prayer connects us directly with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17). It builds our faith and invites His intervention (Philippians 4:6–7). Through prayer we receive wisdom, comfort, and strength in trials (James 5:13–16).

• Fasting humbles our flesh and focuses our spirit on God (Matthew 6:16–18). It can intensify our prayers and break strongholds (Mark 9:29). When we fast, we seek God’s clarity and rely on His power, not our own.

Each of these practices is powerful in its place. But remember: the gospel itself carries God’s ultimate power (Romans 1:16). Prayer and fasting move us toward God, while the gospel brings God’s power into our lives.

The Gospel at Work in Our Lives

How does the gospel conquer situations? By being lived out in us every day. The gospel is more than a message — it’s the truth of Jesus Christ that becomes real in our hearts. As Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, God’s word is living and active. When we believe and act on it, God’s character and strength shine through us (Galatians 2:20). In daily challenges, the gospel gives us hope and perspective.

For instance, when fear or doubt come, we remember Jesus’s promise to be with us always (Matthew 28:20). When we face injustice or weakness, we rely on God’s promises of healing and justice. The gospel changes our values and gives us courage to keep going.

Since the gospel is God’s own power at work, it truly can conquer any situation we encounter. When trouble strikes, we don’t panic — we declare that in Christ we are “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37). We even pray Scripture back to God, saying things like “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). The gospel teaches us to love unconditionally, forgive freely, and serve selflessly, shining God’s light in every situation. No matter what challenges life brings — fear, conflict, or uncertainty — the gospel reminds us of the ultimate victory already won in Jesus.

Boldly Embrace the Gospel for Victory

God has not called us to timid faith. After we have done everything — stood firm, prayed, fasted — Ephesians 6:13 still tells us to stand. Stand on what? On the gospel. We can be bold and unashamed because Christ’s truth never fails. The apostle Paul chose not to hide the gospel (2 Timothy 1:8). Like him, we can confidently share our faith and stand firm in difficult times.

In each day, let the gospel shape your strength and actions. When fear comes, remember Romans 8:31: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” When challenges threaten, declare the words of 1 Corinthians 15:57: “Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Beloved, let the good news of Jesus Christ be your foundation. Trust this message as your source of power. Share it courageously, knowing it has already overcome the world (1 John 5:4). In life’s struggles, stand firm on the gospel — God’s true power — and you will experience His victory in all things.