
Things Above The Gospel Is Bigger
Mar 11, 2026
A wide-ranging defense of a fuller gospel that includes atonement, kingship, sonship, and apprenticeship to Jesus. Conversation on whether discipleship is central or merely a fruit of faith. Warnings about a reduced gospel that offers benefits without following Jesus. Reflections on theology, spiritual formation, and how the proclaimed kingdom shapes Christian life.
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Critique Of A Reduced Gospel
- The article in Christianity Today reduces the gospel to only what Jesus has done for us, excluding discipleship and formation.
- James Bryan Smith argues that treating the gospel as only substitutionary atonement misses its fuller invitation to kingdom living and transformation.
Response To Horton Citing Colleagues
- James Bryan Smith recounts Horton citing John Mark Comer and Scot McKnight as examples who allegedly downplay the core gospel.
- Smith responds that both Comer and McKnight explicitly teach Christ's incarnation and atonement, and their work needs no defense.
Yes And Gospel Framework
- Smith proposes a 'yes and' approach: the gospel includes both what Christ has done and our apprenticeship to him.
- He lists complementary roles for Jesus (Lamb and Lion, Son and Master Teacher) to show these truths coexist.







