The gospel was announced in advance to Abraham, known as the father of our faith. Abraham was justified before God not based on anything he himself did or did not do, but rather because of his faith. He believed and it was accounted to him as righteousness. Jesus was revealed to Abraham centuries before Jesus walked this earth; Abraham believed and put his hope in Him. Faith is the activating agent for us to accept the good news, believe upon the Son of God, be justified from our sins, and receive the promise of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Faith is revealed in Jesus Christ. Before faith comes, we are locked up; held prisoners to the law, our sin, and our efforts.