After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:14-15 CSB)

John the baptizer had been arrested. The final Old Testament prophet proved faithful to his calling. His task was complete. He would now fade into the background. The one he had proclaimed was now on the scene. Behold, God is making all things new.

Jesus’s first words, as noted in Mark 1:15, were like the crowing of a rooster announcing the rising of the sun. Jesus’ voice was the sound of the alarm going off. But in this case it was not just the sun coming into view and the day of work ahead. It was the kingdom of God that was in there very midst. Jesus proclaimed that the kingdom of God had come—in him! And so he gave a two-fold command: Repent and believe.

We continue to preach his authoritative message today.

Repent. Turn away from your sins, from a prevailing lifestyle and belief system that you have received from the world, the flesh, and the devil. Rather, turn back to God, the one who made you in his image. Yes, turn to very one you have offended. Run to his name for it is a strong tower—a place of refuge and safety against the wiles of the devil and the only shelter from the wrath of God for sinners. He is your only safe please. And he bids you to come in Christ and by the power of his Holy Spirit.

Believe. That is, believe the gospel—the good news. Jesus does not offer good advice about how to live. He brings the good news that the prophet like Moses, the king like David, the Suffering Servant-sacrifice of Isaiah had come. The final grains of sand were falling through the hour glass. The pure one born under the law in order to fulfill the law on behalf of his people was here and on the move. Believe in him and him alone.

There is one name under heaven given among men and women through which we might be saved: Jesus. Repent and believe the good news!

PRAYER: Dear Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. In Jesus’ name, Amen.