Mar
11
2010
Can We Overemphasize the Gospel?
Chris Tomlinson has written a thoughtful post today commending the work of The Gospel Coalition and wondering if we, as Christians, can overemphasize the gospel. Here's how Chris opens the post (emphasis his):
I love The Gospel Coalition, and here’s why:
“The Gospel Coalition is a group of (mostly) pastors who are deeply committed to the gospel…and want to think out of the framework of the good news of Christ—crucified, risen on our behalf, reconciling us to God, preparing us for eternity.” -D.A. Carson
“We’ve got our eyes fixed on the fact that the gospel of Jesus Christ needs to be central—it needs to drive everything that we do in ministry and in life.” -Joshua Harris
“The gospel is not proclaimed if Christ is not proclaimed.” -TGC Confessional Statement
“The gospel is not just a body of doctrinal content. It’s a power—it is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe. It’s not just about God’s power—it is God’s power.” -Tim Keller
“I am gripped by any gathering of people who will give themselves to the preservation and the exaltation of the fullness of the gospel, because in the end, my soul gets satisfied with the greatness of God, and God gets all the glory that He should get by being the end for which [all things] exist.” -John Piper
There is beauty and grace and strength and depth in these words. I find deepening affections for God as I consider the human brokenness and Spirit-filled power in this global community which has oriented itself around the greatest news in human history: the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In light of these affections, I was troubled by the question that recently came to mind: Is it possible to overemphasize the gospel?
To find out what Chris' answer is to this provocative question, go here.