The Gospel and Discipleship: A Unified Message

The Gospel proclaims that Jesus Christ—through His incarnation, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and enthronement—is King over all creation and the source of salvation for all who believe (1 Corinthians 15:1-8). However, responding to the Gospel is not merely about receiving forgiveness and eternal life; it is a call to follow Jesus as His disciple—without exception (Mark 8:34-38). The Gospel and discipleship are inseparable, and the way we present the Gospel shapes the kind of disciples we become and make.

In the book, "Why the Gospel?," Matthew Bates emphasizes that faith is not just belief but allegiance to King Jesus. The title "Christ" means “Messiah” or “Anointed One,” signifying His kingship. To call Jesus "Christ" is to recognize His authority and submit to His rule—expressed through obedience, devotion, and participation in His mission. A Gospel that offers only grace and forgiveness without calling for transformation leads to shallow faith, reducing salvation to a mere transaction rather than a lifelong commitment. It creates passive believers instead of devoted disciples. Jesus never presented discipleship as optional; it is the natural response to His kingship.

To be a disciple is to be an apprentice of Jesus—to be with Him, become like Him, and do as He did. This is not only how we demonstrate our allegiance to Him but also how we are shaped into His image. True discipleship flows from a complete Gospel that calls us to submit to His authority, prioritize His kingdom, and actively participate in His work in the world.

If we are to preach the full Gospel, we must make it clear: faith in Christ is a lifelong commitment to following Him. Only then will we make not just converts, but disciples who, in turn, make other disciples—bringing glory to God and advancing His kingdom. A Gospel without discipleship is not the Gospel of Jesus Christ.