What Does It Mean to Be Gospel-Centered?
In recent years, the phrase “gospel-centered” has become a kind of shorthand for churches and leaders who want to emphasize a return to the core of the Christian faith. But what does it really mean to be “gospel-centered”?
Being gospel-centered is not simply affirming the truths of Christ's death and resurrection as a ticket to heaven. Rather, it means that the gospel—Jesus Christ crucified, risen, reigning, and returning—is the central lens through which we understand everything: our salvation, our sanctification, our mission, and our community.
As Don Carson, co-founder of The Gospel Coalition, notes:
“The gospel is not just about how we begin the Christian life; it is the way we continue in the Christian life.”
This truth is anchored in Scripture. In Colossians 1:6, Paul says the gospel is “bearing fruit and growing… just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it.” The gospel does not merely ignite the Christian journey, it sustains and shapes it every step of the way.
John Piper famously echoes this when he says, “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” The gospel makes this possible. Through Christ’s finished work, we are not only justified in our standing before God, but through the gospel we are also brought into daily communion with God where joy, holiness, and mission take root.
So to be gospel-centered is to treasure Christ above all, to apply the gospel daily to our sins, our fears, our relationships, and our work. It is to view all of life through the cross and resurrection. This will ensure that we recognize that grace is not only the means of salvation but the power for transformation.
In a gospel-centered church, the good news is not just for the altar call; it is in the pulpit, in counseling rooms, in elder meetings, in staff prayers, in small groups, and in every song we sing. It means we are consistently asking, “What does the gospel say about this?”—whether “this” is conflict resolution, finances, leadership, or discipleship.
Practically, this means:
Preaching that moves beyond moralism or behavior modification and points people to Jesus.
Leadership that is humble, grace-filled, and shaped by Christ's example.
Discipleship that isn’t about checking boxes but about resting and growing in Christ’s finished work.
Mission that flows not out of guilt, but out of gratitude and joy in the gospel.
As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:1–2, “Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you… by which you are being saved.” We never move beyond the gospel. We only go deeper into it.
Five Questions for Elder Teams to Discuss
In what ways is the gospel actively shaping our leadership culture as elders?
Do our sermons and teaching consistently point people to the person and work of Christ?
How does the gospel shape how we respond to conflict, failure, or sin in our church?
Are we equipping our people to apply the gospel to everyday life, not just conversion?
Where might we be assuming the gospel rather than proclaiming it clearly and regularly?
Come join us at this month’s Foundations Conference where we ask and answer the question: “What is the gospel?” Hope to see you there.