How, then, Can They Call on the One they have Not Believed In?

Abstract

This essay explores Romans 10:13–14 and the necessity of gospel proclamation for salvation. Bivens emphasizes that calling on the Lord presupposes belief, which in turn requires hearing the gospel. He contrasts the biblical gospel with “different gospels” that rely on human deeds, morality, or institutional success, warning that such substitutes are insufficient for salvation. Drawing from the medieval play Everyman, he illustrates the futility of trusting in anything but Christ’s righteousness. The essay affirms the gospel’s universal scope and its central role in parish ministry, spiritual growth, and synodical support structures. Bivens highlights the work of WELS Parish Services in equipping congregations and called workers, stressing that gospel-centered ministry must remain the priority. He concludes with a call to faithfully proclaim the “glorious gospel” entrusted to the church, confident that “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)