What is a false gospel?

A false gospel can be defined as any message that deviates from the simplicity and purity of Christ's work and grace as revealed in Scripture. As Paul articulates in Galatians, the Judaizers were troubling the Galatian believers by preaching a gospel that included legalistic requirements for salvation, thus distorting the true message. This distortion often manifests itself as a reliance on human efforts, religious rituals, or decisionism, which ultimately take one away from the assurance found in grace alone. Recognizing what comprises a true gospel helps believers discern teachings that may seem appealing but undermine the foundational truths of salvation in Christ.