The passage about abiding in the vine, is often interpreted as a call to discipleship, is not about salvation but about being a disciple in the kingdom age. Larry emphasizes the importance of rightly dividing the word of truth, distinguishing between the teachings of Jesus to his disciples before the cross and the revelation given to the Apostle Paul for the body of Christ. The message highlights the difference between the kingdom economy and the grace of God, emphasizing the need to understand the context and audience of biblical teachings.
The plan of salvation for the gospel of the kingdom included repentance (believing Jesus was the Messiah), water baptism, and keeping the Mosaic law. This gospel overlapped with the gospel of grace during the Acts period, culminating in the Jerusalem Council where the two gospels were distinguished. The gospel of grace, established by Paul, replaced the kingdom gospel for salvation after the cross.
Larry critiques John MacArthur’s interpretation of John 8:31-32, arguing that MacArthur misinterprets the passage as a proof text for lordship salvation. He shows that the passage is about discipleship, not salvation, and highlights other passages that define discipleship, such as loving one another and enduring persecution. He also addresses the historical context of the passages, noting the persecution faced by early Christians.
He further discusses the difference between the Kingdom Gospel and the Gospel of Grace. Th message highlights the transition from water baptism for the remission of sins, as preached by John the Baptist and during Jesus’ earthly ministry, to the forgiveness of sins through Jesus’ shed blood, as taught by Paul in the book of Ephesians. He emphasizes the importance of rightly dividing the word of truth and understanding the context of each gospel.
John’s book of Revelation emphasizes Jesus Christ’s role in salvation, contrasting with the gospel’s message. The argument is made against the lordship salvation doctrine, highlighting the distress it causes believers who question their salvation based on perceived lack of fruit-bearing.