In his work,
Today's Gospel:Authentic or Synthetic, Walter Chantry reminded his readers:
A. Products of modern evangelism are often sad examples of Christianity.
B. Attention has focused on large crowds, thrilling choruses, emotional hype—a great deal of noise and dramatic excitement.
C. Evangelists today are making the dreadful miscalculation that sinners know who God is. They plunge into “five things God wants you to know.”
D. In the name of evangelicalism, there is too much preaching on the easy steps to heaven.
E. The empty phrase “accept Jesus as your personal Savior” has become a substitute for authentic repentance.
F. Though unintentionally so, deceit marks many modern invitations to Christ. Reminded of the sadness, loneliness, and discouragements, of life, sinners are invited to come to Christ, who will change all of that and put a smile on their faces. No suggestion is given that following Jesus is sacrificial and painful.
G. Today’s evangelicals propose three easy steps to heaven. It is as simple as A, B, C. Just accept, believe, and confess. A three-sentence prayer and you will be safe for eternity.
Chantry’s work did address evangelism abuses, but he also focused upon the positive dimensions of the authentic Gospel as outlined in Mark 10.
1. The Preaching of the Character of God (10:17-18)
2. The Preaching of the Law of God (10:19-21a)
3. The Preaching of Repentance Toward God (10:21a)
4. The Preaching of Faith Toward God’s Son (10:21b)
5. The Preaching of Acceptance With God (10:22)
6. The Preaching With Dependence Upon God (10:23-27)
