Lucas Leibforth

Have you ever downloaded an app on your phone that you thought would change your life? Maybe it was a new productivity tool, a workout tracker, or even a budgeting app. I have done all of these and if I am honest, multiple times…..3 budgeting apps, 5 different workout trackers and countless productivity tools…..Usually you feel excited at first, but then realize you’re barely using it. It became just another icon on your home screen. That’s what the Gospel can feel like for some of us—a powerful promise we install into our lives but never fully engage with.

Here’s the hard truth: If the Gospel is just something added to your life and it doesn’t radically change everything about your life, it hasn’t fully come alive in your life.

What Does “Come Alive” Even Mean?

The Gospel isn’t meant to sit on the sidelines like an unused app or a gym membership we’re too busy to use. It’s a story of death-to-life transformation, of chains being broken and blind eyes being opened. When the Gospel truly takes root in your heart, it’s not just a change in your Sunday schedule—it’s a complete reordering of your priorities, your relationships, and your purpose.

Jesus doesn’t ask for a slice of your life; He asks for everything. And when we give Him everything, we get something infinitely better in return: a life that reflects His grace and glory.

Adding vs. Transforming

Too often, we treat the Gospel like an accessory. We think, I’ll fit Jesus into my life around my plans, my goals, and my comforts. But the Gospel doesn’t work like that. It’s not an add-on; it’s the operating system.

Think about this: If your faith hasn’t changed the way you treat people, spend your time, or handle your struggles, are you letting the Gospel truly transform you? This isn’t about guilt or shame—it’s about realizing there’s more that God wants for you.

When the Gospel Was an Add-On in My Life

Back in high school, my faith was something I squeezed in if I had time. Football, theatre, AP classes, and friends—those were the real priorities. Church was limited to Wednesday nights (if I made it to youth group) and Sunday mornings (often begrudgingly). I compartmentalized my faith, keeping it neatly tucked away where it wouldn’t interfere with everything else I wanted to do.

One night at youth group, a guest speaker gave a talk about idols. He challenged us to examine the things we were putting above Christ. He mentioned football, friends, and anything else that demanded our time and attention. His words hit me like a ton of bricks. I realized I had been treating Jesus like just another activity on my packed schedule instead of the foundation of my life. That night, God opened my eyes to see that I needed to shift my priorities and put Him first.

Signs the Gospel Has Fully Come Alive

1. Your Priorities Shift: Things that once felt urgent or important fade in comparison to God’s Kingdom. You find joy in obedience, even when it’s hard.
2. Your Identity Is Rooted in Christ: Your worth isn’t tied to your performance, relationships, or possessions. You know who you are because you know whose you are.
3. You See People Differently: Strangers, coworkers, family members—you begin to see them through the lens of grace and love.
4. Your Faith Is Active: The Gospel moves you to action. It’s not just about head knowledge; it’s about living out the love of Christ daily.

So, What Now?

If you feel like your faith has been stuck in the “add-on” phase, there’s good news: God isn’t done with you. He’s inviting you to step into something deeper, something alive and active. Take some time to ask Him, What’s holding me back from letting You transform every part of my life?

Let’s not settle for a shallow faith when God offers us abundant life. The Gospel isn’t just good news for eternity—it’s good news for today, tomorrow, and every moment in between. Let’s live like it.