'Exploring the American Gospel: Unveiling Truths for Christian Believers'

American Gospel: Defining the True Gospel of Christ

American Gospel is a Christian documentary series that aims to define the gospel biblically and promote biblical faith in Christ. It consists of two full-length documentaries, written and directed by Brandon Kimber and released by Transition Studios. The documentaries present a defense of biblical faith by contrasting it with distorted versions of Christianity through engaging interviews, clips of teachers and preachers, and snippets from a diverse group of individuals including pastors, teachers, churchgoers, authors, celebrities, and even Presidents.

1. American Gospel: Christ Alone

The first film in the series, American Gospel: Christ Alone, was released in 2018. It addresses the question of whether Christianity is defined by Christ alone or by Christ plus something else. The film highlights how a significant portion of the professing church has allowed the American dream to distort the true gospel of Christ. Instead of preaching Christ alone, some charlatans preach a message of "Christ + something," such as wealth, health, prosperity, good works, or miracles. This admixture of truth and heresy may be "American," but it is not biblical.

Why This Matters

Understanding and discerning the true gospel is crucial for every Christian. It is essential to recognize false teachings that dilute or distort the message of Christ alone. By examining this issue, American Gospel: Christ Alone equips believers to identify false teachings and remain grounded in biblical faith.

Think About It

Consider what it means for Christianity to be defined by Christ alone. Reflect on how the influence of the American dream can potentially distort the true gospel message. How can you ensure that you are firmly rooted in the biblical understanding of salvation through Christ alone?

2. Exposing Prosperity Theology and Word of Faith Movement

American Gospel: Christ Alone also exposes the false teaching of prosperity theology and the Word of Faith movement. Through interviews with well-known Christian leaders such as Matt Chandler, John MacArthur, Paul Washer, Nabeel Qureshi, and Steven Lawson, the film reveals the dangers of these teachings. Additionally, testimonies from believers whose lives have been transformed by grace through faith in Christ alone are shared, including Costi Hinn, a nephew of Word of Faith preacher Benny Hinn.

Why This Matters

Prosperity theology and the Word of Faith movement have gained popularity in certain Christian circles, but they deviate from the biblical gospel message. American Gospel: Christ Alone highlights the importance of discernment and warns believers about the dangers of these false teachings.

Think About It

Consider how prosperity theology and the Word of Faith movement may distort the true gospel message. Reflect on the testimonies of those who have embraced biblical faith in Christ alone and experienced genuine transformation. How can you guard yourself against false teachings and prioritize biblical truth?

3. American Gospel: Christ Crucified

The second documentary in the series, American Gospel: Christ Crucified, was released in 2019. This film explores how post-modernism and progressive Christianity lead to a different gospel and a god created in our own image. It delves into thought-provoking questions such as whether God killed Jesus and whether the cross was God's idea or cosmic child abuse. The film features interviews with evangelical leaders like Voddie Baucham, Jr., Alistair Begg, Alisa Childers, Mark Dever, Russell Berger, as well as influential members of the progressive Christian community like Tony Jones.

Why This Matters

Understanding the impact of post-modernism and progressive Christianity on the gospel is vital to maintaining a biblically faithful understanding of salvation through Christ. American Gospel: Christ Crucified provides insights into different theological perspectives and encourages believers to critically evaluate these views in light of Scripture.

Think About It

Consider how post-modernism and progressive Christianity shape the way the gospel is understood and presented. Reflect on the questions raised in the film and the different perspectives offered. How can you ensure that your understanding of the gospel aligns with biblical truth and is not influenced by cultural or theological trends?

4. Tackling Weighty Topics

American Gospel: Christ Crucified tackles various weighty subjects, including universalism, perennialism, postmodernism, homosexuality, hell, and different views of the atonement. The filmmakers provide clarity on these topics by explaining key terms and concepts used in different theological camps. They also explore God's attributes such as sovereignty, love, goodness, justice, wrath, jealousy, omnipresence, and immutability.

Why This Matters

As Christians, we are called to engage with challenging topics and have a solid understanding of Scripture's teachings. American Gospel: Christ Crucified equips believers with knowledge to navigate discussions related to these complex subjects and encourages a deeper exploration of biblical truth.

Think About It

Reflect on the weighty topics addressed in American Gospel: Christ Crucified. Consider how different theological perspectives influence our understanding of these issues. How can you approach these topics with grace and biblical wisdom when engaging in discussions or encountering differing viewpoints?

5. Apologetic Tools for the Church

The American Gospel documentaries serve as well-made and engaging apologetic tools for the church. By confronting prosperity theology and progressive theology, which pose significant threats to biblical Christianity, the filmmakers provide a valuable resource for believers to defend their faith. The documentaries are available on DVD and for streaming online.

Why This Matters

Apologetics plays a vital role in defending and strengthening one's faith. American Gospel provides a comprehensive resource that equips believers to address false teachings effectively and promote a biblically faithful understanding of the gospel.

Think About It

Consider the importance of apologetics in your own life and how it can strengthen your faith. Reflect on how the American Gospel documentaries can serve as a valuable tool for defending biblical truth. How can you share this resource with others who may benefit from it?

6. Conclusion

American Gospel: Christ Alone and American Gospel: Christ Crucified are powerful documentaries that define the true gospel of Christ and expose false teachings that distort it. Through engaging interviews, the films address issues such as prosperity theology, progressive Christianity, and challenging theological topics. By equipping believers with knowledge and encouraging discernment, these documentaries serve as valuable resources for defending biblical faith and promoting a deeper understanding of the gospel.

Why This Matters

Understanding the true gospel and discerning false teachings is crucial for every Christian. Engaging with these documentaries enables believers to deepen their understanding of Scripture, guard against false teachings, and effectively communicate the gospel message to others.

Think About It

Reflect on the significance of maintaining a biblically faithful understanding of the gospel in today's world. Consider how you can apply the insights gained from American Gospel in your own spiritual journey and in your interactions with others. How can you actively promote a biblical understanding of the gospel in your community?