If we compare much of what is preached or presented as the gospel these days to what the Bible says is the gospel, and if we are scripturally honest, we will have to say that there is a vast difference between the two. The gospel that most here today has been neutered by the removal of the Law of God as well as His wrath against all unatoned for sin. As a result, the Church is populated by huge numbers of converts, but sadly few regenerate believers.
Not only is the concept that the gospel is a description of God’s bridge to people not well known or understood, it is also not seen as necessary. Why? The social or seeker sensitive gospel does not talk about sin, repentance, God’s wrath, or Christ’s Lordship. Instead, the emphasis is on getting as many as possible to “decide for Christ.” Is salvation a decision that includes the reward of eternal life for making it?
Let’s look first at God’s purpose for creating Man in the first place. Why did God create Man? The Bible tells us that God created Man to honor, serve, and fellowship with Him.
10 the twenty-four elders will fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and will worship Him who lives forever and ever, and will cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 11 “Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.” Revelation 4:10-11 (NASB)
30 If I partake with thankfulness, why am I slandered concerning that for which I give thanks? 31 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:30-31 (NASB)
11 You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalms 16:11 (NASB)
It doesn’t take a genius to understand that very few people actually live their lives within God’s purpose of honoring, serving, and fellowshipping with Him. What happened that destroyed this perfect relationship? Man chose to sin against God rather than serve Him.