What did Jesus mean when he said, "Follow me"? In this 20th anniversary edition of his classic work, MacArthur warns against "easy believism," explains his understanding of biblical faith and works, emphasizes the cost of discipleship, and reinforces his conviction that there's no eternal life without surrender to the lordship of Christ. Includes a new chapter! 320 pages, hardcover from Zondervan.

What does Jesus mean when he says, “Follow me”?

Twenty years ago, pastor-teacher and bestselling author John MacArthur tackled that seemingly simple question—and wrote a book that has since taken its place among Christianity’s classics. This 20th Anniversary edition of MacArthur’s provocative book has been revised and contains one new chapter.

The first edition of The Gospel According to Jesus won wide acclaim in confronting the “easy-believism” that has characterized some aspects of evangelical Christianity. Over the past 50 years, a handful of books have become true classics, revered world-wide for their crystal-clear presentation of the Gospel and lauded for their contribution to the Christian faith. These extraordinary books are read, re-read, and discussed in churches, Bible study groups, and homes everywhere. John MacArthur’s The Gospel According to Jesus is one of those books. In The Gospel According to Jesus, MacArthur tackles the idea of “easy believism,” challenging Christians to re-evaluate their commitment to Christ by examining their fruits. MacArthur asks, “What does it really mean to be saved?” He urges readers to understand that their conversion was more than a mere point in time, that, by definition, it includes a lifetime of obediently walking with Jesus as Lord. This 20th anniversary edition of MacArthur’s provocative, Scripture-based book contains one new chapter and is further revised to provide Christians in the 21st century a fresh perspective on the intrinsic relationship between faith and works, clearly revealing Why Jesus is both Savior and Lord to all who believe.

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Reviewed by Jonathan Balasa (Marysvale, UT), May 30, 2010

This is a powerful, nearly exhaustive masterpiece on the Gospel according to the gospels. While I came into it a little skeptical about his dogmatism, I was thoroughly convinced and appreciated his solely Biblical and well-balanced stand. Of course, there were comments here and there that appear biased, but you can expect that from anyone. The truths in this book are dying. Too many Christians study men instead of the Bible. With John MacArthur we can do both.

Reviewed by Zane Burke (Windsor, VT), April 09, 2010

Excellent book! MacArthur does an excellent job of presenting the Gospel According to Jesus. He uses biblical fact and does not rely on his own imagination to write this book.

Reviewed by Jeremy (Pensacola, FL), January 26, 2010

This book is very well written. I do however find it interesting that people give a bad rating to "So Great Salvation" even thou it too is well written. Although I do not agree with the doctrinal stance of this book, I do admire MacArthur's desire for Christian's to live a godly life. Just be willing to read with an open mind and interpret his "support" scriptures for yourself. Don't confuse discipleship verses with salvation.

Reviewed by Rosemarie Versaci (Barrington, NJ), January 04, 2010

Previously read this book - thought it was great - gave it to a friend for Christmas.

Reviewed by Dr. Jay BarLeon (San Diego, CA), July 22, 2009

When you compare the quotes of modern day easy-believism teachers with those of Scripture and historical church theologians, you see a sharp contrast in the value of grace. Today, grace has come to mean "the reward for uttering a prayer" instead of the free gift of forgiveness to a repenatant broken sinner. This book brings the reader back to Jesus' original calling and message. It does not add works to salvation. Quite the contrary, it removes the 'work' of our simple magic formula prayer and looks for a spirit that is obviously broken by God's work; the changing of a man into a new creation by the Creator. Read the book without previous bias and you will grow to love the Lord for His marvelous work of grace.

Reviewed by Danielle (Connecticut), March 31, 2009

This book should be required reading in every church! John MacArthur tells it like it is, holds no punches...just straight up, unadulterated gospel truth! I especially like that he explains the background and cultural details that the average Christian bible reader would not necessarily have known.

Reviewed by Garrett Poulos (Laramie, WY), March 21, 2009

One of the most important books you will ever read. Explains the issue of "Lordship Salvation" and explains how Jesus commanded us to submit to his authority and be sanctified slaves in Jesus' own words. BEst book I have ever read!

Reviewed by Bud Bosman (Thorne Bay, AK), December 12, 2008

A very good book,well organized with reference,and a very good place to purchase it,great service.

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