Defining the Gospel

The Gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son, was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died for the sins of the whole world, was buried and rose again on the third day in order to deliver from sin’s penalty and power all who turn (repent) to God and believe the Gospel (this truth); furthermore, He grants to believers His Holy Spirit, Christ’s perfect righteousness, and eternal life.

We reject any suggestion that this salvation is secured outside of the sovereign gracious work of the Holy Spirit and faith in Christ alone, such as praying a sinner's prayer or asking Jesus into one's heart. We further decry anything that modifies the gospel by adding a social or economic focus, water baptism—any requirement that could be construed as a work accomplished by man or that teaches there is more than one way to be saved.

Moreover, we believe that because many mistakenly think themselves to be saved, all should work out their own salvation with fear and trembling: examining themselves to see if they are in the faith and ensuring their calling and election is sure.

Berean Baptist Church Pastors