What is The Gospel?

With Richard Stancliffe and SBC, on our 228th Anniversary!

Key Takeaway's

- The church is a community of “visible professors”—ordinary people who openly declare their faith in Jesus and are called saints, not because of their own merit, but because of God’s grace. This identity is not reserved for the spiritually elite, but for all who trust in Christ and seek to follow Him in daily life. Our sainthood is a gift, not an achievement, and it calls us to live with humility and gratitude.[14:43]

- Repentance is a continual turning away from both obvious and hidden sins, including those of omission, such as failing to help others, and those of the heart, like resentment or pride. True understanding comes when we recognize our own capacity for sin and choose, again and again, to turn toward God’s mercy. This is not a one-time act, but a lifelong journey of transformation.[21:57]

- The idols of our age may look different from those of the past, but they are just as real and just as dangerous. Whether it’s the pursuit of wealth, the influence of celebrities and social media personalities, or the idolization of self, these distractions can subtly draw our hearts away from God. We are called to discern what we are truly worshipping and to reorient our lives around Christ alone.[28:26]

- Faith in Jesus is rooted in the historical reality of His life, death, and resurrection. The resurrection is not just a comforting story, but the ultimate sign God has given to the world—a powerful witness that demands our trust. Believing in Jesus means embracing the fullness of who He is and what He has done, and letting that truth shape every aspect of our lives.[30:19]

- The purpose of the church is to glorify God, build one another up in faith, and spread the gospel. This requires a commitment to Scripture as our guide, rather than the changing values of society. When we devote ourselves to these things, we become a community that not only endures, but flourishes, bearing witness to God’s grace for generations to come.[33:42]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00]- Welcome

[11:23]- The Founding of Sabden Baptist Church

[12:43]- The Meaning of the Church Covenant

[13:20]- Who Are the “Visible Professors”?

[14:43]- Saints: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Calling

[17:14]- Baptism and Public Profession

[19:08]- Repentance: Turning from Sin

[21:57]- Sins of Omission and the Call to Help

[23:28]- The Challenge of Forgiveness and Discipleship

[24:48]- Greed, Idolatry, and Modern Influences

[28:26]- The Call to Turn from Idols

[30:19]- United in Faith and Communion

[31:20]- Submitting to Christ’s Lordship

[32:26]- Glorifying God and Propagating the Gospel

[33:42]- Building Each Other Up in Faith

[35:48]- Closing Prayer