God is the Gospel

I am finishing up John Piper's new book "God is the Gospel." Obviously, Piper didn't develop a focus group or see which way the cultural wind was blowing before he decided to write this book. He saw an important issue in the Bible and decided to write about it--pretty simple strategy. I am continually amazed by his passion for communicating the Word of God to our generation. His books are thoroughly biblical and perfectly relevant to anyone's life. Here's an insightful quote from the book concerning the importance of doctrine:

"Gospel doctrine matters because the good news is so full and rich and wonderful that it must be opened like a treasure chest, and all its treasures brought out for the enjoyment of the world. Doctrine is the description of these treasures. Doctrine describes their true value and why they are so valuable. Doctrine guards the diamonds of the gospel from being discarded as mere crystals. Doctrine protects the treasures of the gospel from the pirates who don't like the diamonds but who make their living trading them for other stones. Doctrine polishes the old gems buried at the bottom of the chest. It puts the jewels of gospel truth in order on the scarlet tapestry of history so each is seen in its most beautiful place. " (Page 22)

The thesis of the book is that God Himself is what we receive by receiving the good news of the Gospel. Eternal life is great, heaven is great, streets of gold are great, but it would all be worthless unless Christ was there to be enjoyed and worshipped. The crux of the Gospel is that we receive Him and get to enjoy Him forever. It sounds so simple but Piper lays it out in a way that can be life changing if you allow it to be.