Scripture calls the Gospel “the power of God unto salvation” (Romans 1:16). But what is it, exactly?

Three truths lay the foundation:

1. This is a fallen world.
2. God didn’t make it this way.
3. Jesus Christ is the answer to all its ills.

But if Jesus is the answer, why are so many hearts closed to Him? The Savior Himself says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock” (Rev.3:20). Yet often, the door remains barricaded.

Could it be that people on the other side have the wrong idea of God?

Here’s the narrative some believe: “God is in control of everything, and nothing happens outside His will. He controlled 9/11, the Holocaust, tyrants, wars, pandemics, stillbirths, birth defects, abuse, and catastrophes. Everything is God’s doing—so it must all be good.” If that’s who God is, who would ever invite Him in?

But the Gospel brings a different truth. The problem isn’t God; it’s sin. Sin is the intruder that corrupted our paradise. Jesus didn’t cause our suffering—He came to redeem it.

Yes, God is sovereign, but He isn’t controlling. When we pray, “Thy kingdom come,” we’re acknowledging that God’s perfect will is not fully realized on earth yet. The answer to so many cries of “Why did God let this happen?” is often simple: He didn’t.

If Santa Claus were so grossly misrepresented, people would seal their chimneys, no matter what gifts he brought. The same is true for God. Misrepresenting His character keeps people huddled behind locked doors.

So why is there evil? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do the innocent suffer?
The Gospel answers these questions:

• This is a fallen world.
• Human free will plays a part.
• So does the devil.
• And not every hurricane or disaster is sent from above—many are simply the natural outcome of a broken creation.

The Gospel isn’t just the solution; it’s also the explanation. That’s powerful. It opens the door to Jesus—the One who never harmed anyone, the One who heals, restores, and loves.

This season, as we proclaim the power of the Gospel, let’s make it clear: Jesus isn’t the cause of suffering—He’s the cure.

And when that truth is understood, who wouldn’t open the door to Him? He’s far better than Santa.

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