The following is a summary containing some of the highlights that are found in the PDF File and the Audio below.
A Different Gospel
In the heart of Christian faith lies a profound question: What does it truly mean to be saved? This question is not merely academic, but one that touches the very core of our hope and assurance. The Bible warns us in Galatians 1:8-9 that if anyone, even an angel, preaches a gospel contrary to the one originally given, they are to be accursed. This warning is especially relevant when we encounter teachings—such as the L.D.S. (Mormon) Third Article of Faith—which claim that salvation comes “by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.”
But is this what the Bible teaches? Scripture consistently defines salvation as deliverance from the power and consequences of sin, and most importantly, from the wrath of God (Romans 5:8-9; John 3:36). The Bible makes it clear that this deliverance is not something we can earn through our own efforts or works. Rather, salvation is a gift—freely given by God’s grace and received through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5). If salvation were something we could achieve by our own righteousness, it would no longer be a gift, but a wage owed.
Some may point to the book of James to argue that works are necessary for salvation. However, a careful reading shows that James is not contradicting Paul; instead, he is emphasizing that genuine faith naturally produces good works. We do not do good works to become saved; we do them because we are saved—just as a sheep says “baa” because it is a sheep, not to become one.
Furthermore, a Mormon Apostle equates “salvation” with “resurrection.” The Bible does not agree with this concept. While all will be resurrected—some to eternal life, others to judgment (Daniel 12:2; John 5:28-29)—not all will be saved. Salvation is reserved for those who believe in Christ and trust in His finished work on the cross (John 3:17-18).
In summary, the Christian gospel is not a message of earning God’s favor through works, but of receiving His mercy through faith in Jesus Christ. To add requirements to this simple gospel is to preach “a different gospel”—one that the apostles warned against. Let us hold fast to the truth that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
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