The gospel has been described as a
pool in which a toddler can wade and yet an elephant can swim. It is both
simple enough to tell to a child and profound enough for the greatest minds to explore.
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If I had to put [the gospel] in a single statement, I might do it like this: Through the person and work of Jesus Christ, God fully accomplishes salvation for us, rescuing us from judgment for sin into fellowship with him, and then restores the creation in which we can enjoy our new life together with him forever.
98 words
Tim Keller died in May of this year after a prolific career as a Presbyterian pastor, speaker, author, and apologist. The two quotes above are taken from the article, “The Gospel in All Its Forms.” It’s an important piece for expanding our understanding of the gospel.
Keller contends that “…there must be one gospel, yet there are clearly different forms in which that one gospel can be expressed,” and he cites how the Apostle Paul presented the gospel differently in various contexts.
He also adds, “Theoretically, grasping the full outline should make Christians interested in both evangelistic conversions as well as service to our neighbor and working for peace and justice in the world.”
The ultimate destination of the saved is not a disembodied eternity in heaven; it’s a restored creation, where heaven and earth are united in holy community. And if God plans to restore creation then, certainly he wants us to join him in that work now. The vision of a restored creation is part of the gospel.
Hope you’ll leave a comment.
Next post: Friday, December 8, “The Greatest Love,” from Jayden Haygood
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