The Gospel Is Good News, Not Good Advice

June 3, 2010 by Justin Taylor

Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones reminds us that the gospel of Jesus Christ is good news, not good advice. Advice is counsel about something to do that hasnâ€™t happened yet, but you can do it.

News is a report about something that has happened.

If a king defeats an invading army, he sends back messengers (heralders, good-newsers) who bring a report: respond with joy and live in because it’s all been the defeat has happened.

Every other religion sends military advisors. There are rites, rituals, and laws so that the people can fight for their lives.

One is a response of joy; the other is a response of fear. And in the short run, they look alike. But in the long run, only the gospel—the good news of what Jesus has accomplished—can provide "fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore" (Ps. 16:11).

HT: Tim Keller