Zero Degrees of Separation

S - “but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher. For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.” 2 Timothy 1:10-12 NASB

O - Here we find the term "gospel" referenced as heaven intends.  The gospel is primarily a person not information. Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light … not the information, the person.  Paul's confidence was not in the accurate information about Jesus but in his very person: I know whom not what; I am convinced that He not it; I have entrusted to Him not to it.  There is NO degree of separation … believing facts or truths is insufficient.  They only have consequence in direct and ongoing connection to the person.  All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus (the person); not to facts and truths.  He is the Gospel and he is welcoming all people to life and immortality. 

A - Earth, culture, religion, academics all want to separate the thoughts, ideas, facts and teachings of Jesus from his person; to objectify them.  Heaven, the Kingdom, the only lasting reality intends no such division.  I am not saved by the cross, the blood, the empty tomb.  I am saved by Jesus; it's his cross, his blood and his empty tomb.  According to Jesus, real, eternal life is only found in knowing a person (John 17:3) … and he is even more amazing than the facts.

P - Lord who is near,

Thank you for the confidence found only in your person … and for insisting that we not settle for acceptance of information but engage ongoing relationship with you.  I admit that you are life and give life generously to all who will receive.  You really are amazing.

Grateful for zero degrees of separation,
Steve