The gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). It is received by faith alone, not by works. Ephesians 2:8–9 declares,
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
Any teaching that adds to or takes away from this message is a false gospel. Paul warned the churches in Galatians 1:6–9,
“I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel… But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you… let him be accursed.”
Works-Based Gospels
Some religious groups teach that salvation is earned through sacraments, church membership, or good deeds. This denies the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement. Romans 11:6 says,
“And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace.”
Whether Catholicism with its penance and Mass, or cults requiring strict law-keeping, the message is the same: salvation must be earned. But Scripture teaches the opposite—salvation is a gift.
Gospels That Add Writings
The gospel is found in the Word of God. Groups like the Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses add new revelations—the Book of Mormon, the Watchtower publications. Yet 2 Timothy 3:16–17 affirms,
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God… that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
The Bible is sufficient. Any gospel requiring “new truth” undermines the authority of Scripture and preaches another gospel.
Tradition Over Truth
Others elevate tradition to the level of Scripture. Mark 7:13 rebukes this practice,
“Making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down.”
When tradition overrides the plain teaching of God’s Word, it becomes a stumbling block. True faith rests not on rituals or lineage, but on Christ alone.
The Burden of Religion
False gospels burden people with fear, striving, and guilt. But Jesus says in Matthew 11:28–30,
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest… For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
Religion enslaves, but the gospel sets free. It is liberty through truth, not bondage through error. Galatians 5:1 declares,
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”
My Final Thoughts
The gospel is simple, powerful, and complete in Christ. Any addition, whether it be works, tradition, new books, or religious effort, is a corruption. Let us guard the gospel, contend for the faith, and boldly reject every false message that seeks to pervert the truth. Christ alone saves. Scripture alone guides. Faith alone receives.
