"We know what the gospel is-but do we know why it is? As Christians, we often ask what the gospel is, when we should be asking why it is. Matthew W. Bates has previously demonstrated that the "good news" of the gospel is that Jesus is King. But in his latest book, he explores God's intentions: why has God issued this royal proclamation? And what role can it play in our everyday lives? As Bates observes, we find the answer in a simple but challenging realization: "I am a horrible king of my own life." With examples from Scripture, literature, and personal experience, Bates explains what pledging allegiance to Jesus as ruler of our lives actually looks like. Living authentically according to God's reign conforms humanity to the image of Jesus and extends his glory and honor to all creation. Perfect for church studies, evangelism, or personal spiritual reading, Why the Gospel? invites readers to consider how we can transform our lives and communities through loyalty and devotion to King Jesus. The book includes questions to guide discussion."--

Matthew W. Bates is professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. He holds an M.C.S. from Regent College (biblical studies) and a PhD from University of Notre Dame (theology, New Testament). He is cofounder of the OnScript podcast. Bates's books include Salvation by Allegiance Alone, The Gospel Precisely, Gospel Allegiance, and The Birth of the Trinity.