What Kind of Gospel Are We Preaching?

A Simple Reflection on the True Message of Jesus

Have you ever wondered if the message about Jesus we hear today is the same as the one first shared by the early Christians? Let’s talk about it in plain terms.

There’s a warning in the Bible (2 Corinthians 11:4) where Paul, a key leader in the early church, tells people not to just accept any message about Jesus without thinking. He says some people are preaching a different Jesus and a different message—one that isn’t real. Paul’s main concern is that people might fall for a “fake gospel”—one that’s easy, comfortable, and doesn’t demand much from us.

Let’s face it: sometimes, the version of Christianity we hear about today is watered down. It’s a “feel-good” faith that asks almost nothing from us, just like Duncan Campbell said: “There is a kind of gospel being proclaimed today which conveniently accommodates itself to the spirit of the age, and makes no demand for godliness.”

But is that the real message of Jesus? According to Paul, not at all.

Paul was never ashamed to share the true message about Jesus, even if it was tough to hear. In Romans 1:16, he says that the real gospel is the power of God to save everyone who believes. This message is for everyone—no matter their background.

But Paul didn’t just start by talking about how much God loves us. Instead, he began by being honest about a difficult truth: all of us have messed up, and God is angry at the wrong in our hearts and actions. That’s what the Bible calls “God’s wrath.” Paul didn’t sugarcoat things to keep people happy or comfortable. He wanted everyone to realize that ignoring our need for God’s forgiveness is dangerous.

Today, we don’t often talk about things like God’s wrath or judgment. It’s much easier to only talk about God’s love, blessings, and happiness. But the real good news isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about being honest about our need for help and the amazing rescue that Jesus offers.

Paul’s message was not meant to make people comfortable; it was meant to wake them up. He was clear that everyone—no matter who they are—needs God’s mercy. The wonderful part is that, because of what Jesus did, no one has to stay under the weight of their mistakes or be afraid of God’s judgment. When we put our trust in Jesus, God forgives us, and we become right with Him.

So, what gospel are we preaching? Are we sharing the full message—the one that tells the truth about sin, judgment, and, most importantly, God’s mercy through Jesus? Or are we settling for a soft version that doesn’t ask for real change?

Let’s not be fooled by anything less than the real deal. The true gospel challenges us, but it also sets us free.

Minister A Francine Green / July 2025