Reviewed by: Connor Salter, Professional Writing student at Taylor University

Introduction

Title: Getting the Gospel Right: The Tie that Binds Evangelicals Together

Author: R.C. Sproul

Publisher: Baker Book House Company

Publication Date: 2017 (original edition published 1999)

Format: Paperback

Length: 234 pages

OVERVIEW

Do Catholics and Evangelicals believe the same things about the gospel?

R.C. Sproul and other scholars had to face that question after the release of Evangelicals and Catholics Together and The Gift of Salvation, both statements signed by major Catholic and Protestant leaders. In this book, Sproul analyzes The Gift of Salvation, explaining the problems it raises. He also explains the historical context behind Catholic and Evangelical views of the gospel so readers understand why it’s important to understand these problems. Sproul then goes on to explain why he and other scholars released The Gospel of Jesus Christ: An Evangelical Contribution to try and solve those problems.

Because of the topic, this book is somewhat technical. To make readers understand the problems he’s concerned about, Sproul has to describe some highly detailed theological ideas, including what “evangelical” means in a modern context and what it means to be part of “the visible church” as opposed to “the invisible church.” People without basic theology training will definitely find this book hard to get through. However, readers who’ve studied some theology and church history will find this book to be a well-developed explanation of what the gospel is and what separates different views of the gospel. Ultimately, Sproul accomplishes his goal and shows why understanding one’s beliefs about the gospel is so important.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

3 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

Christians trying to understand what it means to be saved “by faith alone,” readers trying to understand the disagreements that led to the Protestant Reformation, readers trying to understand what the gospel really is.

Christian Impact

This book will help many Christians develop a deeper understanding of the gospel’s core teachings.

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