Nine2New Episode 2: Unveiling the Multiple Gospels of the New Testament

Nine2New Podcast

Welcome to Nine2New, your go-to blog for deep theological insights, especially through the lens of Grace Dispensationalism. Today, we challenge the widespread belief in a singular gospel within mainstream Christianity by exploring the distinct messages of the apostles Peter and Paul.

Distinct Gospels in the New Testament

A close examination of the New Testament reveals different emphases in the proclamations of Peter and Paul, highlighting the presence of multiple gospels rather than a single, unified message.

Peter’s Gospel: The Kingdom Gospel

Peter’s message, often referred to as the gospel of the kingdom, is deeply rooted in Jewish expectations and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies:

• Repentance and Baptism for Forgiveness of Sins: Directed at a Jewish audience, emphasizing repentance and baptism (Acts 2:38).
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Connecting Jesus' life, death, and resurrection to Jewish prophecies (Acts 2:16-36).
• The Kingdom of God: Focused on the return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom on earth (Acts 3:19-21).
• Focus on Israel: Emphasizing Israel’s role in God's redemptive plan (Acts 3:12-26).

Paul’s Gospel: The Gospel of Grace

Paul’s message, often termed the gospel of grace, introduces significant theological developments and emphasizes salvation by grace through faith, particularly for the Gentiles:

• Justification by Faith: Salvation as a gift of God’s grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:28).
• The Mystery of Christ: Inclusion of Gentiles as co-heirs with Jews in the body of Christ (Ephesians 3:1-6; Colossians 1:25-27).
• The Body of Christ: The Church as the body of Christ, transcending ethnic distinctions (1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Galatians 3:28).
• Freedom from the Law: Declaring believers are no longer under the law but under grace (Romans 6:14; Galatians 2:16).

Comparative Analysis

A detailed comparison underscores the distinctiveness of Peter and Paul’s messages:

• Audience: Peter primarily addresses Jews, urging them to recognize Jesus as their Messiah. Paul’s message is directed towards Gentiles, emphasizing their inclusion in God’s plan.
• Theological Emphasis: Peter’s gospel is associated with Jewish prophecy and the restoration of Israel's kingdom. Paul’s gospel centers on the mystery of the Church and justification by faith.

Explore these rich theological insights and understand the diverse ways in which the gospel was presented in the early Christian movement. Join us at Nine2New for more in-depth explorations of scripture.