Only Jesus: What It Really Means to Be Saved

by John F. MacArthur Jr.

What is the essence of the gospel as Jesus Himself proclaimed it? How people answer that question is crucial to their understanding of what it means to be a Christian. Only Jesus explores what the Bible says about who Jesus is, what is saving grace, and what it means for Jesus to be both Savior and Lord of a person’s life.

Based on his classic bestseller, The Gospel According to Jesus, John MacArthur answers the age-old question: What did Jesus mean when He said, “Follow me”? In Only Jesus, author and teacher John MacArthur makes it clear that the gospel Jesus preached was a call to self-denial, radical changes, and serving Him. Difficult demands? Impossible in human terms? Yes, but attainable when we understand that the gospel is a call to faith, and genuine faith produces a heart that voluntarily responds to the ever-awakening reality of Christ’s lordship. Only Jesus examines the gospel that Jesus himself preached—with an eye toward gaining a thorough and proper understanding of the true way of salvation. He is the only One to whom we must turn for words of eternal life. This book is compulsory reading for Christians who want a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and seekers who want to know who Jesus is and what he taught.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Nonfiction, Faith, Christianity

192 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 17, 2020

About the author

John F. MacArthur, Jr. was a United States Calvinistic evangelical writer and minister, noted for his radio program entitled Grace to You and as the editor of the Gold Medallion Book Award-winning MacArthur Study Bible. MacArthur was a fifth-generation pastor, a popular author and conference speaker, and served as pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California beginning in 1969, as well as President of The Master’s College (and the related Master’s Seminary) in Santa Clarita, California.

Reviews

[Dr. David Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic summary of The Gospel According to Jesus.

[Brittney Weber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is concise and holds no punches. In "Only Jesus", MacArthur goes into what it really means to be saved. It's more than just praying a prayer and "accepting Jesus into your heart". It's seeing yourself as the sinner you are and making Christ Lord of your life. It's more than just making mental assent to a Scripture checklist. It's daily taking up your cross, denying self, and following Christ.

JMac is one of my faves to listen to and I can't wait to read more of his books. I love his no nonsense, no fluff style.

[Nathan Bower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book by John MacArthur. On showing how it’s only Jesus that has saved us. Not our works not our merit. Only Jesus.

[ChelseaKansasReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for all Christians. What a dive in to the Christian faith. It answers questions like “Am I really saved?”, “How should I be living as a Christian?”, and give a beautiful look at the life of Jesus and what He expects from a truly born again disciple.

[Jeff Mackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grasps and Solidifies Our Understanding of the Cross and Being Saved.

MacArthur has done it again! This reading clearly clarifies and gives the reader complete understanding of the phrase “being saved“ and the meaning and purpose of the Cross. Whether recently saved or a long time Christian, this book creatively brings out the full colors of becoming a true follower of Jesus Christ!

[Jacob Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A small book that would suffice in giving to someone who is a new believer but it would also benefit the more mature and sound theologian as a reference to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.

Though MacArthur doesn't go into great detail of Christology, he still has a great understanding and references so, of who Jesus is.

It is a book of encouragement to the believer, and for those seeking, this should stir and move the mind, heart, and soul.

[Nina Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eye and Heart opening

This book opened my mind and heart to the true meaning of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This book is especially good for new believers but also gives in-depth meaning and insight to mature believers. This book is an easy read with scriptures to back up what is explained. I liked reading a little at a time to meditate on what I read. I also believe that this book will be a good teaching guide to used for pre or post converts of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

[Shannon Bonneau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baptism

I do believe Baptism is very important/ commanded:
Matthew 21:25, 3: 6,7,13,14,16,11 28:19
Mark 1:4,5,8,9, 10:38-39,16:16
Luke 3:3,7,12,16,21, 7:29,30 12:50
John 1:2/-28,33, 3:22-26,4:1-2, 10:40. ,
Acts 1:5,22, 2:38-41, 8:12-16, 8:12-16,36,38, 9:18, 10:37,47-48, 11:16, 13:24, 16:15,33, 18:25, 19:3-5, 22:16, 15:29
Roman's 6:3-4
I Corinthians 1:13-17,10:2, 12:13
Galatians 3:27
Ephesians 4:5
Colossians 2:12
Hebrews 6:2
I Peter3:21

[Byron Flores · Rating 4 out of 5]

El autor tiene un don innegable para articular y desglosar las verdades del evangelio de una manera profunda y accesible, y este libro no es la excepción.

Sin embargo, y aquí reside la razón de mis 4 estrellas, si eres un lector asiduo del autor, es muy probable que sientas que ya has recorrido este camino. La estructura, los puntos principales y muchas de las ilustraciones son muy consistentes con su trabajos anteriores.

[Dustin Frantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only Jesus is basically a mini version of The Gospel According to Jesus, as it’s mentioned on the back of the cover. What I like about that is that it’s easy to carry around. In terms of the content, very solid. MacArthur gives simple definitions to every topic in each chapter and presents the passages of Scripture for each. Highly recommend

[Joshua Goetz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a simple book out lining what it means to be saved. I have to admit that there are times when John MacArthur is a little brash or off puting, but this book is straight and to the point and I really enjoyed it a lot.

[Lynette Karg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an abridgement of his landmark book "The Gospel According to Jesus." I have not read the original, but this one is clear and concise, a valuable explanation of biblical saving faith which contrasts with the popular evangelical version.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

This condensed but precise book would be quite useful to new disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. Also, seasoned disciples would most likely be glad they read it and thankful for being introduced to it.

[Ronald K. Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

masterful

John MacArthur expertly traces the life in sacrifice of Jesus. He makes it clear in the last chapter that are salvation is a gift from God. There are things I do not agree with John MacArthur about. None of them are in this book. I highly recommend it.

[Georel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful and insightful

As a relatively new Christian, this book helped me understand the sweeter nuances of Jesus' words and actions. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to have a greater appreciation of the Gospel.

[Joey Midgett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Salvation at its core a great read

John Macarthur does an excellent job at explaining Salvation
at its core and basic level.
Only Jesus is a great read for anybody.

[Julian Rasbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this book. I'll add my voice to the choir; a fantastic summary of The Gospel According to Jesus. Maybe because it's condensed, but it seemed more intense. I loved every moment in this book.

[Sassa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written book. Edifying and inspirational.
I am so thankful I read it.

[Kyle Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid book describing the cost of salvation. Short, quick read for someone who really cares to understand what Jesus means when He says "follow me."

[Neh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read but the author's clarity is phenomenal.

[retroGRAD3 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A distilled version of his book The Gospel According to Jesus Christ. The essentials are presented of the true Biblical gospel. A great book for family worship as well.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

My book

[R Gerber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read for those who really want to a close walk with the Lord

[Galina Shepel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone must read this

Every person should read this book, especially Christian. Very informative and educational.
We are using it for small groups study, very blessed.

[Lena mae deWolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

MacArthur is a true man of God

I loved the way he explained being saved and what it means. Truth using scriptures not just a bunch of confusing words. Truth!!!!

[Novia Dw · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best Christian books I've ever read

[Thomas Q. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book as usual from pastor John MacArthur, I highly recommend reading!

[Anthony M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

great read!

Humbling to read this book- it’s a great reminder that we owe everything to Christ Jesus for his sacrifice. Well written and aligned with scripture.

[Ben Omer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The condensed version of MacArthurs “the gospel according to Jesus” focuses solely on the essentials to the Christian faith.

Small, but deep. A theological study that is ruthlessly biblical. John keeps the Bible at the center of his understanding of the gospel.

You could give this to an unbeliever to challenge their convictions, a new believer to give them a deep understanding of the gospel, and give it to and old believer who will be induced in thoughtfulness. Must read.

[Sarai Aldana · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to refresh your memory on what it really means to be saved. I really recommend this book.