One of my favorite questions to ask people is, “What is the gospel?” I have found over the years that this question helps identify what you are working with in terms of evangelical understanding. You get everything from “the writings” to “what is read at Mass” to “Jesus saves sinners”.
With such a variety of answers there is a need for clarity from the church on this.
Furthermore, many Christians are themselves not clear on what the gospel is. For whatever reason many Christians seemed ‘under-whelmed’ by what Christ has done in history for sinners.
So there is the problem. And the solution is that Christians need to be faithful and clear with the gospel. Greg Gilbert wants to help us with that. Gilbert is a pastor at Capital Hill Baptist Church in Washington DC and he serves with Mark Dever (and others) in the 9Marks ministry. Gilbert writes What is the Gospel? to help people understand the gospel.
The book’s small size (120 pages) is not overwhelming and neither is the writing style. Gilbert keeps it simple but profound. He moves through the various chapters with goal of helping us better understand, believe and love the gospel.
Here are the chapters:
- Finding the Gospel in the Bible
- God the Righteous Creator
- Man the Sinner
- Jesus Christ the Savior
- Response–Faith & Repentance
- The Kingdom
- Keeping the Cross at the Center
- The Power of the Gospel
There are many things I liked about this book. But let me just highlight a few:
- It is God-Centered. The gospel is anchored in the character of God. You wind up better understanding and loving God for his marvelous grace.
- Emphasis upon Repentance. The response to the gospel is to repent and believe. Unlike Jesus (Mark 1.15) many fail to emphasize this today.
- Sanctification. The gospel is not just for unbelievers in this book but rather for believers. Gilbert works hard to remind us that the gospel is the foundation for everything!
- Simplicity. I gave this book to my 11 year old son as he made a profession of faith. We used it to prepare for baptism. He was able to understand and digest it.
Many people look for a book to go through with an unbeliever or new believer; this one would serve you well.
Discounted copies are available at Amazon or Westminster Books.
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