The goal of the gospel is not forgiveness.
Does that sound strange?
So often it seems that the gospel is presented as a way for us to be forgiven for our sins – to be declared “not guilty” and to be given a fresh start and a clean slate. We are told that the gospel offers us freedom from guilt and the hope of heaven. While this is true, it is not the whole truth, and to stop here is to miss much.
Without a doubt, Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins and make forgiveness possible – but forgiveness wasn’t the end goal He had in mind – it was merely the means to the end. The true goal of the gospel is the glory of God. Pardon was purchased so that we might see and enjoy and rightly relate to the Holy One. Psalm 130:4 says, “But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.” Jesus laid down His life so that we might fear God. He shed His blood so that we might stand in awe of God’s excellence and marvel at His majesty and be amazed at His glory. This is what we were created for – and this is what makes the gospel “good news.”
The Goal Of The Gospel
June 6, 2008 by kathydoremus
So true! When I’m stuck in my “stuff” and wondering how God could love this sinner and thankful that He has forgiven me, I have to stop and remember that it really is NOT about me! It’s all about Him. I’m not here to “win” others to Christ or to make a good life. And Christ did not die just to forgive my sins. Christ died to make a way for me to glorify God and enjoy Him forever! So that, when I ask for forgiveness for the umpteenth time, I bring glory to God. It really is all about Him! Hallelujah!