Scot McKnight: What is the Gospel?

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Understanding the True Meaning of the Gospel

1. Introduction to the Misconception:

   • The word "gospel" has evolved in its meaning over time among Christians. The modern definition often includes concepts like God's love, our sinfulness, Jesus' sacrifice, and salvation through faith.

2. Biblical Perspective:

   • The true essence of the gospel can be found by looking at the teachings of the Bible, particularly the New Testament.

3. Definition of the Gospel according to Apostle Paul:

   • In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul explicitly defines the gospel as the core message he preaches. It consists of four key points:
     • Jesus died for our sins according to the Scriptures.
     • He was buried.
     • He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.
     • He appeared to various individuals, including Peter and the 12 disciples.

4. Paul's Emphasis on Jesus in the Gospel:

   • Paul emphasizes that the gospel revolves around Jesus Christ and his resurrection. It is about remembering Jesus as the Messiah, raised from the dead, and descended from David.

5. Early Christian Gospel:

   • The earliest Christian gospel was centered around telling the story of Jesus, his life, death, resurrection, ascension, and his future return to rule.

6. The Role of Apostles in Preaching the Gospel:

   • Apostles like Peter and Paul preached the same message about Jesus. They shared the story of Jesus to convey the essence of the gospel.

7. Focus on Jesus in Evangelism:

   • When sharing the gospel with others, the primary focus should be on what God has done through Jesus Christ. It is about narrating the story of Jesus and his redemptive work.

8. Purpose of Evangelism:

   • Evangelism is not just about how to get saved but primarily about sharing the story of Jesus. It is about emphasizing how Jesus saves and redeems people, offering them a transformed life in alignment with God's will.

9. Living Out the Gospel:

   • As believers, we are called to bring Jesus into our conversations, personal lives, and interactions. By living according to the gospel, we invite Jesus to work in us, guiding us towards a life of holiness and grace.

10. Conclusion:

    • The gospel is not merely a set of instructions on salvation but a powerful narrative about Jesus Christ, his work, and the transformation it brings to those who believe in him.

By understanding and sharing the true essence of the gospel as outlined in the teachings of the Bible, we can effectively communicate the message of Jesus' redemptive work and its impact on our lives and the world around us.