To mark 60 years of Gospel preaching in this congregation we want to consider Gospel terms as they appear in the Scriptures. The only difference from our normal form of gospel preaching is that we will consider these great truths is a more logical, systematic order.
There are four great areas of gospel truth set out in the Scriptures:
1. The Fall of humankind into sin and the great need for salvation. There are a wealth of terms which teach and illustrate this fact, such as: Sin, Sinfulness, Loss of original righteousness, Original sin, Actual sin, Depravity, Bondage of the will, Total Inability, Free will, Condemnation, Separation, Alienation, Guilt etc.
2. The Promise of Salvation. Again there are a wealth of terms: Salvation, Gospel, Good News, Saved, Kingdom of God, kingdom of Heaven, Church of Jesus Christ.
3. The Accomplishment of redemption. This takes in all those term which relate to Jesus Christ purchasing redemption: Grace, Mercy, Love, Covenant, Election, Redemption, Atonement,Mediator.
4. The Application of redemption. Free offer of the gospel, External call, Effectual Calling, Regeneration, Conversion, Justification, Adoption, Sanctification, Assurance, Perseverance of the saints, Resurrection, Glorification.
These topics must be covered in the regular faithful preaching of the Gospel. What we propose to do is consider them a little more systematically.
This evening we want to commence by considering some matters relating to the Fall of mankind and his subsequent sinfulness. |
