The Difference Between Preserving the Gospel and Advancing the Gospel

2 Thoughts on Circumcision, Church Identity, and Mission

We must understand the difference between preserving the gospel and advancing the gospel. A preserved gospel always advances, as people in awe of the gospel always want to advance it. But it is possible to advance a pseudo-gospel, another message in place of the real thing.

Just as there is a distinction between the gospel and the implications of the gospel, there is a distinction between preserving and advancing. And I am concerned that we confuse the two frequently in our churches. The distinction is biblically illustrated with circumcision and Titus and Timothy. Titus was not circumcised so the truth of the gospel would be preserved. Timothy was so that the gospel would be advanced. Read more