THE SEQUEL TO MACARTHUR'S "GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JESUS”
MacArthur wrote in the Introduction to this 1993 book, "This is not a typical sequel. It is more of a PREquel... It fleshes out the framework of doctrine that was only hinted at in its predecessor, 'The Gospel According to Jesus: What Is Authentic Faith?' That book was an analysis of Jesus' evangelistic ministry... This book deals with the apostles' doctrine of salvation, showing that ... the entire New Testament message stands in stark contrast to the hollow 'gospel' many are proclaiming today." (Pg. 11)
He explains that he declines to participate in debates on the subject, as "The real issues are not going to be settled in one- and two-hour sessions... Worst of all, debates contribute to the perception of personal hostility." (Pg. 14) He also notes, "I don't like the term 'lordship salvation.' I reject the connotation intended by those who coined the phrase... Although I have reluctantly used the term to describe my views, it is a concession to popular usage." (Pg. 23)
He states that genuine believers "may stumble and fall, but they WILL persevere in the faith (1 Cor 1:8). Those who later turn completely away from the Lord show that they were never truly born again (1 John 2:19)." (Pg. 25) He admits that the lordship controversy "IS a disagreement over the nature of true faith." (Pg. 30) He emphasizes that works play no role in GAINING salvation, but "have everything to do with LIVING OUT salvation." (Pg. 70)
MacArthur notes that "Jesus Himself had very little to say explicitly about justification by faith. That doctrine was first expounded in its fullness by the apostle Paul." (Pg. 98)
MacArthur's book should be read with GATJ, for full effect; for the contrary view, read 'Absolutely Free: A Biblical Reply to Lordship Salvation' and 'So Great Salvation.'