To know what are the leading points of the gospel, is a matter of unceasing importance. When these are attacked, the gospel is destroyed…The apostle’s reason for employing that expression unquestionably was to describe the true and genuine gospel, which alone is worthy of the name…As he proceeds in defending the authority of his doctrine, his confidence swells. First of all, he declares that the doctrine which he had preached is the only gospel, and that the attempt to set it aside is highly criminal. But then he was aware, the false apostles might object: 'We will not yield to you in our desire to maintain the gospel, or in those feelings of respect for it which we are accustomed to cherish.' Just as, at the present day, the Papists describe in the strongest terms the sacredness with which they regard the gospel, and kiss the very name with the deepest reverence, and yet, when brought to the trial, are found to persecute fiercely the pure and simple doctrine of the gospel. Accordingly, Paul does not rest satisfied with this general declaration, but proceeds to define what the gospel is, and what it contains, and declares boldly that his doctrine is the true gospel; so as to resist all further inquiry. – John Calvin |
