Twenty-first century denominations present a different gospel than the one found in the Bible.

If the gospel and Christianity was like what is presented by modern American churches, first-century Christians would have been told they don’t need to be slaves, but could be masters if they simply expressed faith in Christ and followed His example. The message would have been, “You can avoid suffering, oppression, sacrifice, and persecution, and enjoy your best life now.”

The “American gospel” is all about how you can enjoy all the world has to offer, fit in with it, be popular, and feel good about it.

The gospel of Christ is about being in opposition to the world, in fact, hated by it (John 15:18-21). It is about offering yourself as a living sacrifice that results in peace with God, but hostility with the surrounding culture and even your own family (Romans 12:1, 2; Matthew 10:34-39).

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Due to the popularity of the “American gospel,” many churches have moved toward it; adapting their teaching and worship in an attempt to keep and attract more adherents. While this may result in short-term gains, in the long run it will be devastating, as well as soul-damning (Galatians 1:6-9).

Christianity, as presented in the Bible, is antagonistic to the world. Those in the world do not understand why Christians believe and live differently. And, as a result, will relentlessly persecute disciples of Christ (1 Peter 4:3, 4). Such treatment does not have popular appeal, but it is The Way the Lord directs.