A Softer Form of Legalism

Whether expressed in the more radical politics of the right, the goal of evangelism, discipleship, and corporate church life became a softer version of legalism – a constant stream of exhortation to follow the example of Jesus while assuming familiarity with the gospel of Jesus. More recently, the Emergent Church movement, if anything, intensifies the call to discipleship while in some cases even modifying the gospel. Although the politics, vocabulary, style, and ambiance might suggest otherwise,it represents the same emphasis that many of us recall from conservative evangelical upbringing: Do more. Be a leader,not a follower. Accomplish great things for God. Discipleship, not doctrine.

– Horton, Michael; Christless Christianity: The Alternative Gospel of the American Church; Baker Books; Grand Rapids, MI; copyright 2008; p. 108

What Is the Central Message of Christianity?

The central message of Christianity is not a worldview, a way of life, or a program for personal and societal change; it is a gospel. From the Greek word for “good news,” typically used in the context of announcing a military victory,the gospel is the report of an appointed messenger who arrives from the battlefield.

– Horton, Michael; Christless Christianity: The Alternative Gospel of the American Church; Baker Books; Grand Rapids, MI; copyright 2008; p. 105