Christ Jesus is The Difference

by Harley Pebley

Several months ago, to prepare the congregation for communion, the leader asked the common evangelical question, “If you stood before God right now and He asked why you should get into heaven, what would you say?” He continued, briefly explaining sin, our need for salvation, Jesus redemptive sacrifice and how we can repent to receive forgiveness. This was the gospel as typically presented in most evangelical churches. As I sat there in agreement with him, I couldn’t help but wonder “Is this all there is to the gospel?” This question has rumbled around my soul and spirit for a number of months. I now want to record a resounding, “No, this is not all there is to the gospel.”

First, I want to emphasize that in no way do I add to Jesus finished work on the cross. It is only by Him we are saved. He paid the cost for our redemption. He drew us to Him to accept His payment and forgiveness. He is the author and finisher of our faith.

The gospel as commonly presented, and as given on that day months ago, is the gospel of salvation. Paul refers to this in his letter to the Ephesians and Peter makes this the focus of his message on the day of Pentecost. Jesus is Lord. Repent. Be baptized. It is core to our relationship with God. Without it, we have no access to His presence, leaving everything else without meaning. However, if we stop here, we simply have “fire insurance” and God means the gospel to be so much more.

The gospel is also a gospel of peace. It is through forgiveness that we have peace with God. We are no longer enemies with Him but He considers us His children. Further, we can cast our cares and burdens on Him, let Him be our sufficiency and rest in His peace.

In addition to salvation and peace, the gospel is one of grace. When we accept Jesus, He gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is by the Spirit’s work and empowerment that we can live the righteous and just lives He desires of us. His life in us enables us to resist temptation and do the things He calls us to do.

Furthermore, the gospel is of God. He reaches out to us. It is nothing we do; it is not dependent on us. Even though we are weak, He is strong. Though we are faithless, He is faithful. He is the guarantor of the covenant. We are not.

Finally, the gospel is about the kingdom. This seems to be one of the least taught parts of the gospel. I think to understand this better, we need to realize Jesus came first to redeem humanity but He also came to rescue all creation. Jesus Himself teaches, as recorded in John’s gospel, that God so loved the cosmos, or the universe, that He gave us His only Son. Paul continues this theme in Romans when he says all creation yearns for the full revelation of God’s sons. Scripture clearly teaches that Jesus will return physically to establish His kingdom on earth. There will be new heavens and a new earth. We will have redeemed bodies. He will establish justice. He will arrange everything according to God’s plan. The planet will be free of corruption. The King of all kings will rule and reign in righteousness. His kingdom will rule the globe. In our world, torn by robbery, immorality, evil, famine and poverty, this ultimate rule by the one who is the very definition of love and justice and righteousness is truly good news.