Gospel People: A Call for Evangelical Integrity

by Michael Reeves

A Biblical Case for the Importance and Goodness of Being “Evangelical”

The term evangelical is often poorly defined and frequently comes with cultural and political baggage. As the label has become more controversial, many Christians have begun to wonder if they should abandon it altogether.

Michael Reeves argues from a global, scriptural, and historical perspective that, while it’s not necessary to discard the label altogether, Christians must return to the root of the term—the evangel, or “gospel”—in order to understand what it truly means. He identifies the theology of evangelicalism and its essential doctrine—the Father’s revelation in the Bible, the Son’s redemption in the gospel, and the Spirit’s regeneration of the heart—calling believers to stand with integrity as people of the gospel.

A Biblical and Theological Explanation of  Rooted in Scripture and the writings of figures throughout church history  Explores evangelical theology and distinctives outside of narrow cultural definitions Brief and  Written for both lay people and church leaders

Genres: Theology, Christian, Christian Living, Nonfiction, Faith, Audiobook, Christianity

130 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 2, 2022

About the author

Michael Reeves (PhD, King's College, London) is President and Professor of Theology at Union School of Theology in the UK (www.ust.ac.uk). He is Director of the European Theologians Network, and speaks and teaches regularly worldwide. Previously he has been Head of Theology for the Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship and an associate minister at All Souls Church, Langham Place, London.

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5. Michael Reeves is on my short list of favorite living Christian authors.

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

Gospel People: A Call for Evangelical Integrity is the latest work from the pen of Dr. Michael Reeves. The author issues a strong plea for Christians to live and proclaim the gospel with biblical humility.

The three components that fortify the backbone of the book include 1) Revelation from the Father, 2) Redemption by the Son, and 3) Regeneration by the Spirit. This biblical template comprises the essence of the gospel and unifies followers of Christ.

After a rigorous and illuminating discussion of the aforementioned points, the author builds momentum by calling followers of Christ to live lives grounded in humility and integrity: “It is the bearing of one refreshed by the gospel,” writes Reeves. “Captivated by the magnificence of God, such evangelicals will not be so drawn to man-centered therapeutic religion. Under the radiance of his glory, they will not want to establish their own little empires … He will loom large, making them bold to please God and not men.” Gospel integrity is the goal of every believer. Reeves paints a wonderful portrait of such a life: “They will be quick to serve, quick to bless, quick to repent, and quick to laugh at themselves, for their glory is not themselves but Christ. This is the integrity found through the lifting up of Christ in his gospel.”

Gospel People is an important book that should be devoured by Christians. The book is clear, biblical, and practical. The clarion call extended by Dr. Reeves should be heard and heeded. The result will be a renewed commitment to living as gospel people - people committed to humility, integrity, and the “faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.”

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Linda Galella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything you need to know about being Evangelical; past, present & future.

This tiny book has mountains of information about a subject that’s misunderstood by those in the Church and outside the church. Author, Michael Reeves, tries to sort out what it means to be Evangelical in his book, “Gospel People”.

Reeves includes the history of the Evangelical movement and the following definition: “to be Evangelical means to act, not out of political or cultural leanings, but out of theological, biblical convictions.” Much of the text is supported by biblical references from the writings of the Apostle Paul; scripture is quoted using the ESV version.

Reeves also includes many writings from those considered heroes from this avenue of faith; men like: M. Luther, C. S. Lewis, J. C. Ryle, J. Stott, Augustine, J. Wesley and many others. Ever since the days of Martin Luther encouraging folks to read the Bible for themselves caused a large split from the Roman Catholic Church, “Gospel People” have been confounding. There’s no single theology to unite them all.

All things considered, a reasoned call to Evangelical Integrity that’s not just for Gospel People📚

[Jethro Wall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this. All about what being evangelical really means. The chapter 'Gospel Integrity' stole the show.

"This is the stamp of the humility that is found in the gospel, and the look of evangelical integrity... Captivated by the magnificence of God, such evangelicals will not be so drawn to man-centered therapeutic religion. Under the radiance of his glory, they will not want to establish their own little empires. Their tiny achievements will seem petty, their feuds and personal agendas odious."

[Austin Gannett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Come for the first four chapters of clarity and refreshers. Stay for the call to gospel integrity in chapter 6. Buy the book for chapter 5 “The Importance of Being Gospel People” - which humbly and clearly lays out the case for unity matters of first importance versus secondary and tertiary issues. Be surprised by the fun two appendices.

Reeves is always fun to read - witty, punchy, and overflowing with joy for the Lord and the gospel. This book is maybe a little less “fun” in those ways, but no less solid or encouraging.

[Ashley Hoss · Rating 4 out of 5]

With the 2016 and 2020 elections, there's been quite a bit of noise about what it means to be Evangelical. Many assert that Evangelicalism is more about Conservative/Republican political power than about theology. After reading Jesus & John Wayne, there seemed to be a thread that would indicate that to be true on some level (and maybe it is to many bad actors within the Christian faith). However, in Gospel People, Michael Reeves takes a look even further back in Christian history, to the Protestant Reformation and shows how Evangelicalism takes its roots in the Reformational ideas of the 5 solas and reminds the reader why it's important to hold fast to the faith heritage behind Evangelicalism.

Dr. Reeves starts the book off by saying he doesn't intend to "defend everything that calls itself evangelical," but rather to point us back to the foundation of our faith and "become people of the gospel" (pg 13, 14). He further asserts that Evangelicalism must be defined theologically and not culturally or politically, saying:

To be evangelical means to act, not out of cultural or political leanings, but out of theological, biblical convictions. The subject matter of evangelicalism is the gospel, which is known through Scripture. ... That means that people of the gospel are evangelical, whether or not they choose to own the label. It also means that if something or someone purports to be evangelical, or is paraded in the media as such, and yet is not about the gospel, they are not evangelical. Whatever else they stand for is not proof of the emptiness or shapelessness of evangelicalism, but only that the label is not being applied accurately.

He then goes on to define evangelical theology in 4 ways (as also defined by Paul in Romans 1:1-4):

1. Trinitarian: it is the good news of God the Father concerning his Son, who was declared Son of God in power according to the Spirit.
2. Biblical: it is proclaimed through the holy Scriptures.
3. Christ centered: it concerns God's Son.
4. Spirit effected: it is by the Spirit that the Son is revealed.

Dr. Reeves also summarizes the gospel as:

1. Revelation: it is not man's gospel, but one revealed by God.
2. Redemption: it concerns the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.
3. Regeneration: it brings the radical renewal of a new creation.

From there, Dr. Reeves gives a defense of each of the 3 Rs. For Revelation, he gives a solid defense of the authenticity, reliability, and infallibility of scripture, pointing to early church fathers and reformers to provide historical context (Sola Scriptura). For Redemption by the Son, he points to the fact that it's only through Jesus that we are saved; that his death on the cross is sufficient for our salvation. We do not need to do anything to earn that salvation, it is a gift from the Father through the sacrifice of the Son (Solus Christus, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia). For Regeneration, he looks to the spiritual transformation we go through when God changes our hearts. On pg 76, he makes sure to clarify that this transformation is not the end, but rather a "new birth into a new and eternal life." This heart transformation is essential to having right theology and right behavior (also referred to as orthodoxy and orthopraxy). Since this is a work done in us, we can't will or force ourselves to be perfect, but rather, Jesus' perfection covers our sins when we mess up and enables us to do good.

Dr. Reeves finishes the book with a look at the importance of being Gospel People and having integrity. On pg 93-94, he is quite clear that there is always the temptation for Christians to put something other than the gospel as central to behavior, saying:

Personalities, culture, and politics can equally trump the gospel. Evangelical tribalism is all too often about not about doctrinal disagreement at all (however much it masquerades as such). Evangelical people, churches, and ministries can use theology to cloak the actual personal and political reasons why they do not have the degree of fellowship that their shared belief encourages. True evangelicalism should mean that we can enjoy hearty fellowship with other evangelicals without ever imagining that our fellowship implies our approval of everything they believe. But when loyalty to the gospel wanes, culture-or personality-shaped empires mushroom where members of each tribe fear any association with outsiders because their association might be read as an endorsement of all the outsider's alternative views. In such situations, because the gospel is not the unifying factor, people become increasingly blind to the distinction between gospel issues and cultural differences.

The impact of the gospel on evangelicalism should be driving us towards humility and fidelity to the scriptures. While there's a few minor points in this book that I didn't fully agree with Dr. Reeves on, the vast majority of it was encouraging, eloquently written, and gospel focused. I think this book is really great if you have been feeling cynical about the church lately and want to be reminded of who we are in Christ and why that is important.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The term evangelical is often met with derision in today's world. The label is frequently associated with agendas other than the gospel. Reviewing the beliefs and actions of many who call themselves evangelicals, Reeves writes, “evangelicalism today is not truly or fully evangelical.” (106) Reeves is clear. If someone claims to be evangelical but is not about the gospel, they are not evangelical. (15) Evangelicals act out of biblical conviction, not some political or personal agenda.

Reeves calls Christians to return to the foundational meaning of the term, to be people of the gospel. If that does not happen, he says, evangelicalism will become a washed up cultural relic.

Because use of the term has been so confused lately, Reeves clarifies that evangelicalism means Trinitarian, Scripture-based, Christ-centered, and Spirit-renewed. He explores the writings of theologians from the past to verify this understanding.

I like that, while Reeves emphasizes the truthful and trusty worthy nature of Scripture, he is not a “biblicist.” Being Scripture-based, he argues, does not mean there is no truth except that found in the Bible. The Reformers did not reject insight from outside Scripture. (32) Being an evangelical does not mean despising learning and research. (34)

I also like Reeves clarifying that being evangelical is not just having right doctrine. While evangelicals must take care to orthodoxy (right doctrine), they must also apply that doctrine to have right practice (orthopraxy) with a right heart (orthocardia). (78) Referring to Micah 6:8, evangelicals are people who do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. (78)

This book is a great wake up call to those people who call themselves evangelicals yet are not about the Good News of Christ. True evangelicals are gospel people. They are people who believe the gospel, preserve the gospel, and practice the gospel. They are people who love God and their neighbor. Though flawed people, they are becoming more Christlike day by day and desire to live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. (Phil. 1:27)

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Zack · Rating 3 out of 5]

Extremely well-written and lucid theological prose (a feat in and of itself), this little book outlines and fleshes out what it is to be an Evangelical. Reeves employs John Stott’s threefold definition of Evangelicalism, and he structures his book according to its three marks:

1 - Bible: the revelation of God the Father
2 - Cross: the redemption of God the Son
3 - Spirit: the ministry of God the Spirit

Some key takeaways that stuck out to me included:
- robust treatment of the place of evangelism in Evangelicalism (pp. 75f.)
- emphasis on Evangelicals as “Gospel People” throughout
- a global perspective reminiscent of Stott and the Lausanne Movement (both of which are cited often)

I would recommend this book as a more recent lay-level (and easy-to-read) treatment of the same theme as C. S. Lewis’ “Mere Christianity,” J. C. Rule’s “Knots Untied,” and writings by J. I. Packer and John Stott on Evangelicalism.

The book would have benefited from less historical oversimplification (see bottom of p. 133) , and distinguishing Scripture (as written Word) as the principle of theological knowing from God Himself as the principle of theological being (a move which might have affected the structure of the book, separating out "Bible" from "Father").

[Peter Dray · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Mike Reeves, to be evangelical isn't so much to be part of a movement as it means to be faithful to the evangel, the gospel. Thus to be evangelical means to be committed to revelation from the Father, redemption by the Son and regeneration through the Spirit. According to this view, there were those who were 'evangelical' in belief long before Wesley and Whitefield.

Recovering true evangelical identity, then, means recovering and recentring on the gospel itself - an impulse that will continue to bring believers together across denominational lines. It also shows itself in humility, what Reeves sees as the defining characteristic of an evangelical posture.

Chapters 5 and 6 - on what it means to be gospel people and on gospel integrity - are essential reading. So too are the appendices which show the limits of defining evangelicalism primarily as a historical or sociological movement. Once we understand 'evangelical' to refer to something more than a historical novelty, we can sense a deeper awareness of what's at stake.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael Reeves's "Gospel People" is a solid primer on evangelical belief. I was a bit disappointed at first as I thought the book would be more focused on considering Christian leaders whose moral compromise had damaged evangelical witness. In "Gospel People," Reeves seeks to put down simply and clearly what evangelicalism is. Reeves doesn't want the church to abandon the rich tradition of evangelical thought just because some have sullied its name. Reeves convincingly argues that evangelicalism has a strong and faithful lineage in both theology and practice.

"Gospel People" serves two purposes: one, to advocate for the recovery of and continuance of the evangelical tradition; two, to clarify core evangelical beliefs.

For more reviews see thebeehive.live.

[Bobby Bonser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reeves argues for gospel-centered unity among "evangelicals" and contends for the revival of the true word "evangelical." He argues for those central doctrines to remain central while not disregarding the importance of "tertiary" doctrines.

I found this work refreshing, as so many Christians spend their time and energy arguing about tertiary doctrines. We can whole-heartedly have conviction (and should) of those tertiary doctrines, while also promoting a true unity of the whole body of Christ across diverse beliefs about those doctrines.

[Tim Sandell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant. Michael Reeves’ short book is a plea for evangelicals to be just that: people of the evangel, of the gospel. He expounds that definition in three areas: the revelation of the Father, the redemption of the Son, and the regeneration of the Spirit, taking you on a Grand Tour through Scripture and the great theologians of the past.

As with all of Reeves’ books this will stimulate your mind and warm your heart. Recommended.

[Linda Filcek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book with reminders about how to keep the Gospel the center of relationships.

[Jon Cheek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reeves presents three critical elements that identify an evangelical: Revelation from the Father, Redemption by the Son, and Regeneration through the Spirit. These three elements are specifically Trinitarian. This book works to use historical, biblical, and systematic theology to demonstrate the critical place each of these elements holds in true Evangelicalism, particularly in contrast to Roman Catholicism and liberal theology. Reeves demonstrates how the Reformation concept of justification was not new with Luther but was prominent in the teaching of the early church fathers. Reeves carefully distinguishes between Evangelicalism as a cultural phenomenon that arose in the 20th century and the genuine evangelicalism that stretches through church history.

This is the fourth book I have read by Michael Reeves in the past year, and all of them were excellent.

A few highlights:

"'Evangelicalism' will be a threadbare, washed-up cultural relic for as long as it stands on any other foundation than this apostolic gospel. But where people of the gospel have integrity to this gospel, we will see something of heavenly beauty and fruitfulness: a heartfelt unity in, and striving together for, the faith once and for all delivered to the saints." (20-21)

"To be evangelical means to stand with Christ against the Pharisees in submitting to Scripture as supreme in its authority and so refusing to make 'void the word of God' (Mark 7:13) by our own traditions, thoughts or feelings. To be evangelical means Scripture trumps all." (31)

"As it was for Jesus himself, Scripture is not our end or objective: God is." (44)

"Because Christ's redemptive work is entirely sufficient, the gospel is God's kind work of rescue, not his offer of assistance. It is not a call for the strong and good to prove themselves, but for the weak and bad to prove the depths of the mercy of Christ." (55)

And he includes a critical warning: "There is something about evangelicalism that can make it a fertile soil for pride. Evangelicals are people of the word, and so learning is in the blood. Yet learning so commonly fosters arrogance. Then there is that confidence that we have the truth, an assurance that can buckle into a pharisaical censoriousness that makes many seek refuge elsewhere." (108)

[Jon Pentecost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Encouraging, convicting, and faithful to point your eyes to Jesus.

[Thomas Kuhn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reeves attempts to offer a theological reclaiming of the "evangelical" designation. His definition focuses on the revealing work of the Father, the redeeming work of the Son, and the regenerating work of the Spirit. As someone who tends to cringe when I'm referred to as an "evangelical," this book was challenging. I don't cringe because I disagree with what Reeves describes as evangelicalism, I cringe because of how it has been held captive by bad actors and used primarily as a sociological and political identity (of which I want nothing to do). While Reeves is quick to acknowledge the failure of evangelicalism he convincingly argues that it is a designation worth holding simply because it means "gospel people." It is the gospel, the good news of the triune God's creating, redeeming, and re-creating work that is the foundation of the Church.

One lingering issue I have with the book is whether the title "evangelical" can truly be redeemed in an American context. When most folks hear that word they immediately think of far right political groups and "culture war" positions that have nothing to do with the God of the Bible. I can't help but think "evangelical" is a useful "in-house" designation but is not a helpful way to describe ourselves in an American context. Still wrestling.

Anyway, great book. Made me love Jesus more and want better for his people.

[ValeReads Kyriosity · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always find Michael Reeves worth reading, and he's always an excellent self-narrator. This book is a nice little encouragement for not throwing in the towel on evangelicalism or the word evangelical. I agree!

[Michael Berra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ich finde dieses kompakte Buch interessant und es scheint mir, da ich erst grad John Stotts „Evangelical Truth“-Manifest gelesen habe, eine etwas längere und neuere Variation davon zu sein. Reeves zitiert auch ausführlich aus diesem Büchlein (teils schien es mir auch nur implizit, aber bis in Wortlaute daran angelehnt zu sein). Sogar die Struktur ist sehr ähnlich. Ich finde das erste und die letzten Kapitel die stärksten (1,5,6), da dort sein Anliegen besonders spürbar wird, dass sich die Evangelikalen wieder aufs Zentrum und ihren Namensgeber konzentrieren sollten: das Evangelium. Dort kommt er mir am Nuanciertesten aber gleichzeitig auch am meisten zugespitzt entgegen. Das gefällt mir.

Die mittleren Kapitel, in denen er konkrete Inhalte entfaltet, sind grundsätzlich gut, wenn sie auch etwas gar knapp ausfallen und mir einiges fehlt. Insbesondere mit seinem Kapitel zur Bibel als Offenbarung des Vaters (er baut wie Stott in einem trinitarischen Dreiklang auf) konnte ich nicht so viel anfangen. Die Aussagen sind mir da oft etwas gar steil und nicht ganz zu Ende gedacht und erinnern darin an gewisse (teils berechtigte) Vorwürfe gegenüber sogenannten „Biblizisten“. Des weiteren würde ich seine Hauptthese kritisieren, obwohl ich sie gleichzeitig voll unterstütze… Wie geht das? Ich unterstütze sie, weil sie sagt, dass die Evangelikalen Menschen des Evangeliums sein müssen, weil sie das immer waren und der Fokus darauf der einzige Weg nach vorne ist. Kritisieren will ich aber, dass das alles ist, was die wirklich Evangelikalen waren und sind und sie deshalb fürs wahre apostolische Christentum stehen sollen. Mit anderen Worten will er das Label nur theologisch, nicht aber soziologisch definiert haben. Das finde ich aber nicht hilfreich, weil die Evangelikalen - erst Recht im deutschsprachigen Raum in der Unterscheidung zu evangelisch (das beachtet er zB nicht wirklich) - immer auch eine besondere Gruppierung im christlichen Strom waren. Diese Verkürzung hilft meines Erachtens nicht in den aktuellen Diskussionen, verzerrt das Bild und ist in diesem Sinne auch etwas gar verklärt. Ansonsten gehe ich sehr gerne mit ihm mit und würde es folgendermassen ausdrücken: Im Zentrum das Zentrum - so müssen die Evangelikalen wieder evangelikaler werden!

Ps: das Buch ist kürzlich auf deutsch erschienen, ich habe aber die englische Ausgabe gelesen.

[Aaron Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend. In a nearly manifesto method, Reeves outlines the core marks of authentic Christianity, which here is essentially treated as synonymous with "Evangelicalism." At first, I thought that assertion was too bold, but Reeves reduces the meaning of "Evangelical" to its literal meaning - "Gospel people" - regardless of whether someone accepts the title or not. In fact, by Reeves' own definition of what it means to be truly Evangelical, and by his own estimation, more than half of "Evangelicals" are not Evangelical at all, and can barely be called Christian (Reeves lists various stats that show many self-described "Evangelicals" aren't even Trinitarian, and have a theology of God more akin to the cult of the Latter Day Saints).

The general outline of the one true faith: The revelation of the Father in the Word, the redemption of the Son through the Gospel, and the regeneration of the Holy Spirit in God's true people.

Reeves also spends much time emphasizing the importance of another aspect: the catholicity of evangelicalism as relates to its unity and diversity (quite unrelated to the Roman Catholic Church as an institution, the word catholic means universal and varied). He encourages us to divide on primary issues, but to treat other issues with the same degree of weight that Scripture ascribes them, distinguishing between matters of primary (his outline), secondary (denominational differences), tertiary and even lesser concern (e.g. diet).

I greatly appreciated Reeves' description of Orthokardia ("right heart") as the fundamental aspect of the one true faith, as even more fundamental than orthodoxy and orthopraxy. The three are inextricable from each other, but the first is the essence and root of true faith.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What does it mean to be an evangelical? Who are true Gospel people?

Using key Biblical texts and theological quotes from church history, Dr. Michael Reeves answers these questions with clarity and winsomeness. Those who profess to know and love Christ must understand who they are in Him and how this transforms everything.

As usual, Reeves is beautifully Trinitarian in his exposition of the defense of the faith. Revelation, redemption, and regeneration is the gospel work of our great God as revealed in the supreme, sufficient Scriptures. These truths transform the life and heart of the true believer.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Jonathan Vasgar · Rating 5 out of 5]

While not Reeves finest work, this was still an edifying read. Deeply convicting about what really being an evangelical Christian is about. Highly recommended.

[Derek Plegge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insightful read if your wanting to understand more of what the term “evangelical” means and affirms. I wish that he would have expanded further on the debate of continuing to use the term…

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant articulation of what is to be biblically and historically evangelical, and a call to not abandon the label.

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very easy read, if I didn't pace myself I would have easily finished it in one sitting. A very good book encouraging us to be focusing on the good news and centering on the importance of scripture and the persons of the trinity.

[Josh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great. Thankful for short(er), incisive books like this.

[Matt Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great

[Mark Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Clarifying and enriching. If you've ever scratched your head when the term Evangelical is used this book will give you decernment.

[Wagner Floriani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classic Reeves. A true translator of the best within Christian theology for the everyday Christ follower. Fantastic and compelling overview of essential gospel doctrine and culture.

[Brittany Shields · Rating 5 out of 5]

“‘The evangelicals’ are being defined—and even defining themselves—by agendas other than the gospel.”


What does evangelical mean? Who are evangelicals? Is this term too damaged to be used?

After reading Kristin Kobes Du Mez’s book Jesus and John Wayne, I wondered if what I believed evangelical to mean was true anymore. Frankly, most of what you hear about evangelicals these days seems tainted by its associations.

Right now, the perception and seemingly widely held negative connotation of ‘evangelical’ does not seem like something I want to be identified with.

Michael Reeves recognizes the precarious place the word ‘evangelical’ hangs and has written a book to address this controversial word and remind us why we may still call ourselves evangelical.

I needed this book and am glad for his biblical grounding of ‘evangelical’ and his encouragement to return to evangelical integrity (more on that later).

He says,

“I believe that there is a biblical case to be made for the importance and the goodness of being evangelical.”  

“I do not at all mean to defend everything that calls itself evangelical.” 

“Looking around at the phenomenon of evangelicalism today, it often seems a mile wide and an inch deep.”  

“Across the world, swathes have come to self-identify as evangelical without holding to classic evangelical beliefs. And then there is the problem of how being “evangelical” has become associated with particular cultures, with politics, or with race.”


What is an Evangelical?

‘Evangelical’ comes from the word ‘evangel’ which comes from the Greek word for ‘good news.’

And we have the title of this book: Gospel People. Evangelicals= to be ‘of the gospel.’

Reeves describes the marks of evangelicals by quoting several passages written by the apostle Paul. Many prominent theologians have echoed this formatting throughout church history. These beliefs are not new compilations at all.

There is no real ‘definition’ of evangelical as many would like to be able to point to, but these are the gospel essentials required for evangelicalism.

“Any definition of the evangel and so of evangelicalism must follow apostolic teaching with its essential qualities of being Trinitarian, Scripture-based, Christ-centered, and Spirit-renewed.” 

He focuses his book on discussing these three R’s: Revelation, Redemption, Regeneration.


Revelation of the Father

The revelation of the Father is His Word— the Bible.

To be evangelical means that you have a high view of Scripture. Maintaining the supremacy and authority of Scripture. Human wisdom, church tradition, and other valuable sources of learning are helpful, but they are not the ultimate voice or the source of Truth.

“There are a number of authorities to which the healthy evangelical will want to submit: the governing authorities of the land (Rom. 13:1), church elders, and creeds. But none of those authorities, along with Christian tradition and reason, are infallibly trustworthy like the word of God. They are of men. Scripture is of God.”

This discussion involves the terms ‘inerrancy,’ ‘infallible,’ and ‘inspired.’

“For Jesus, Scripture is the word of God, and as such he could teach “Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35). To suggest that the word of God might be faulty or untrustworthy is to imply that God is faulty and untrustworthy.”  

For more information on why we can trust God’s Word and the way it was compiled, these two books would prove helpful:
- Taking God at His Word by Kevin DeYoung
- Surviving Religion 101 by Michael J. Kruger


Redemption of the Son

The redemption of the Son is the centrality of Jesus as the Son of God and the only Savior for our sins.

To be evangelical means that you believe in Jesus and his saving power on the cross.

“the eternal Son of God, Jesus Christ, has by His life, death, and resurrection, as our Representative and Substitute, obtained a complete salvation for sinners, and a redemption from the guilt, power, and consequences of sin, and that all who believe on Him are, even while they live, completely forgiven and justified from all things, are reckoned completely righteous before God, are interested in Christ and all His benefits.”

In Christ alone we are saved. We cannot add to this by requiring a way to earn salvation by good works. And we cannot substitute anyone else in his place.

“Because Christ’s redemptive work is entirely sufficient, the gospel is God’s kind work of rescue, not his offer of assistance. It is not a call for the strong and good to prove themselves, but for the weak and bad to prove the depths of the mercy of Christ.”


Regeneration of the Spirit

The regeneration of the Spirit is the importance of the life-transformation that happens through the work of the Holy Spirit.

“It is he who anoints the messenger, confirms the word, prepares the hearer, convicts the sinful, enlightens the blind, gives life to the dead, enables us to repent and believe, unites us to the body of Christ, assures us that we are God’s children, leads us into Christ-like character and service, and sends us out in our turn to be Christ’s witnesses. In all this the Holy Spirit’s main preoccupation is to glorify Jesus Christ by showing him to us and forming him in us.”

To be evangelical means that doctrine is important, but that our theology must be put into practice and change hearts. Evangelism is sharing the good news with others and believing in the power of the Spirit to transform lives, making people more like Christ.

“Born of the Spirit, we should spurn both spiritual hypocrisy and emptiness, loving both God and neighbor as we “glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh” (Phil. 3:3).”
 

Why Does it Matter?

“Since being gospel people means both unwavering faithfulness to the gospel and a refusal to elevate other issues to the level of the gospel, evangelicals have to walk a line between fighting over too much and discerning too little.” 

The Evangelical Free Church uses the phrase ‘Major on the Majors, Minor on the Minors.’ Meaning- we do not compromise on gospel doctrines (the majors) but we allow for differences on non-gospel issues (the minors) in order to keep unity in the Church.

Evangelicals are found in many different denominations.

Gavin Ortlund has written a helpful book— Finding the Right Hills to Die On— using the term ‘theological triage’ to refer to discerning what areas of disagreement are first, second, or third tier issues (first tier meaning major gospel doctrines that ARE the right hills to die on).

Reeves says,

“The truer mark of the evangelical is discernment. Holding firm to the gospel, and holding it supreme, we reject all that opposes or presumes to rival it—and that must include the tribalism that elevates personalities, culture, politics, or any other issue to the level of the gospel. For evangelicals seek, before all things, to be people of the gospel, not people of a sect.” 

Knowing what evangelical means matters because if we compromise on any of these major beliefs, we cease to be evangelical. We cease to be gospel people because we no longer have the gospel as God has given us to it in the Bible.


What is Happening with Modern Day Evangelicalism?

The last chapter of the book was my favorite. I practically highlighted the entire thing.

The other chapters were helpful, especially if you aren’t sure how you can articulate what evangelical means or what the gospel is, but the last chapter, titled Gospel Integrity, speaks to the problem of how ‘evangelical’ has become convoluted in America today and how we should respond.

I’d like to point out here, as Reeves does, that ‘evangelical’ is not an American word. It has been hijacked in American politics and has come to represent something other than its true definition, but there are far more evangelicals outside the US than inside. And those evangelicals are not representative of a racial or political block as we currently see in America.

In the US there are surveys and studies everywhere you look claiming statistics about evangelicals’ beliefs and habits which in turn create widely held connotations of what evangelicals are and what they stand for. But there are many people identifying as evangelicals without being evangelical in their beliefs.

For example,

“One 2020 survey found that 30 percent of American “evangelicals” believe that Jesus is not God; 65 percent believe he is instead the first being created by God; 46 percent believe the Holy Spirit is a force, not a person; and in any case, 23 percent feel that belief is a matter of opinion, not objective truth.”

This hardly meets the criteria for being gospel people.

Should we abandon this term ‘evangelical’?

Reeves argues that no, we should not. The term, however it’s masqueraded, is truly what we are- gospel people.

“The word evangelical has centuries of pedigree for a good reason. It may have lost some of its value in some places, but that can be regained through reinvestment. And where else can we people of the gospel go? There really is no acceptable and viable alternative with anything like the historical weight or the descriptive simplicity.” 

Instead of glossing over the problems, he poses that we must “not to condone or flee, but repent and reform.” It’s a reformation movement to continually renew ourselves in biblical truths not a conformation movement that adapts to the cultural worldview and beliefs.


We maintain evangelical integrity.

And this, says Reeves, requires humility.

Ouch, right? If there’s one thing largely lacking in America— and in my own heart— it’s humility.

“[Evangelical integrity] is the bearing of one refreshed by the gospel. Captivated by the magnificence of God, such evangelicals will not be so drawn to man-centered therapeutic religion. Under the radiance of his glory, they will not want to establish their own little empires. Their tiny achievements will seem petty, their feuds and personal agendas odious. He will loom large, making them bold to please God and not men. They will not dither or stammer with the gospel. But aware of their own redemption they will share his own meekness and gentleness, not breaking a bruised reed. They will be quick to serve, quick to bless, quick to repent, and quick to laugh at themselves, for their glory is not themselves but Christ. This is the integrity found through the lifting up of Christ in his gospel.”  

There is no unity without humility.

We need to reflect on what we’ve believed and what we’ve presented as our beliefs. Have we contributed to the perception (or reality) that evangelicals place a political or social agenda above the gospel? Have we compromised biblical truths in order to conform to accepted cultural values? We need to, in humility, return to the revelation our Father, the redemption of Jesus, and the regeneration of the Holy Spirit and be reformed and renewed by it. We don’t need to fear the 'evangelical’ identity as long as we are fearing our God.


These books are helpful as we think about politics and what the church should be centered on:
- How the Nations Rage by Jonathan Leeman
- What is the Mission of the Church? by Kevin DeYoung
- The Gospel as Center by D.A. Carson and Tim Keller
- ‘Fundamentalism’ and the Word of God by J.I. Packer


Conclusion

Calling all gospel people! This book is for you.

Even if you don’t call yourself a gospel person— if you’ve ever wondered what the heck ‘evangelicals’ are, this book is for you.

Gospel People is completely worth reading, even if you just read the last chapter. But in truth, the entire book is very relevant to today.

I’ve grown up in the evangelical free church my entire life. If I’m googling what evangelical means, then I’m assuming there are plenty of others who are too. This book is a Scripture-rich explanation of the gospel, the marks of evangelicals, and a call for evangelical integrity.

Plus it’s short, so that helps too!

I’ll leave you with this quote that circles back to our three R’s:

“Through the gospel, we come to realize that without God’s revelation, we are left groping in the darkness of ignorance. Without the redemption of the Son, we are utterly lost in our guilt and alienation from God. Without the Spirit’s work of regeneration, we are helplessly mired in our sin. In the gospel, God is exalted, and we delight to be abased before him. And only then, when he is lifted up, are people drawn to him (John 12:32).”

 

Extras:

Throughout the book Reeves quoted from J.C. Ryle on features of Evangelical Religion. Here are some of his quotes that I’m sure you’ll see represent the material above:

“The first leading feature in Evangelical Religion is the absolute supremacy it assigns to Holy Scripture, as the only rule of faith and practice, the only test of truth, the only judge of controversy.”

“Evangelical Religion does not despise learning, research, or the wisdom of days gone by.”  

“A leading feature in Evangelical Religion is the depth and prominence it assigns to the doctrine of human sinfulness and corruption.”  

“A leading feature in Evangelical Religion is the high place which it assigns to the inward work of the Holy Spirit in the heart of man.”  

“A leading feature in Evangelical Religion is the importance which it attaches to the outward and visible work of the Holy Ghost in the life of man.”

“You may spoil the Gospel by disproportion. You have only to attach an exaggerated importance to the secondary things of Christianity, and a diminished importance to the first things, and the mischief is done.”  

“Keep the walls of separation as low as possible, and shake hands over them as often as you can.”


**Received an ARC via NetGalley**

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[Caroline McGill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid, systematic overview of evangelical unity. Reeves reads like a modern-day Packer.