One Gospel in Action

Pastor Tim Keller explains that the three different descriptions of the gospel are in reality just three different perspectives on the same gospel. But most Christians only see the gospel from one of these perspectives.

The first view could be called the Salvation Perspective. Most evangelicals have reduced the gospel to “getting saved.” They try to get people “converted.” Then they try to encourage these converts to “grow” as believers, but the most important work has been done. They are ready to go to heaven when they die.

The second view could be called the Kingdom Perspective. This is similar to the old liberal Social Gospel. It had a gained new life with the Emergent Movement. This view encourages believers to participate in the Kingdom of God as it takes on the kingdom of this world. Individuals are “recruited” to repent and accept Jesus as their Lord and King. This includes spending eternity with him but focuses on advancing the Kingdom now.

The third view could be called the Grace Perspective. This view is emphasized by one of my favorite authors David Benner. The Apostle Paul is talking about this in Galatians when he asked, “After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?” (Galatians 3:3). The focus here is on learning to rely on God’s grace. This is also reflected in Paul’s statement, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

So what do you think? How does your view of the gospel affect how you go about your life?

Pastor Rod

“Helping you become the person God created you to be”