Why is the gospel message described as old and new?
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The gospel message is both old, as it was established before the foundation of the world, and new, as it is revealed through Christ in history.
The gospel is described as both old and new in the context of its eternal truth and its historical revelation through Christ. In 1 John 2:7-8, John mentions that it is an old commandment known from the beginning, which refers to the promise and plan of salvation established by God before time. However, with Christ's coming, the message takes on new dimensions, being more fully revealed as the embodiment of God's redemptive plan. This duality illustrates that while the gospel is timeless, it is also fresh and continually impactful, calling for a response from each generation. Believers are encouraged to recognize the gospel's roots in the character of God and its manifestation in the person and work of Christ.
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