Some reaction to this reveals the problem. And it's not simply a matter of "style," but of theology. Some say the reason the gospel isn't clear is because the teaching is aimed at Christians. But most of these churches say the exact opposite: we're prioritizing the unchurched. 1/
Secondly, and probably more importantly: The fundamental breakdown is this: A misunderstanding of the power of the gospel. The Bible positions the message of Christ and his work as not just for the lost but also for the found. It isn't power just for conversion but for growth 2/
This is the whole crux of "gospel-centrality": The gospel is robust and versatile and powerful enough for both saved and unsaved. It is the skeleton key for existence. Preaching "be better"-type sermons to lost folks only makes well-behaved lost folks (at best.) 3/
Preaching "be better"-type sermons to Christians leads to burnout or self-righteousness. Preach grace! Grace, grace, grace! It is the power for salvation and the power for sanctification. 1 Cor. 15:1-3; Titus 2:11-12; 2 Cor. 3:18; etc etc etc. 4/
If I had to boil down the major disconnect between gospel-centrality and attractional ministry, it would not be about style or production or "mega" or whatever. It would be about this: how much weigh do you put on the glory of Christ to change people? 5/5
