The essential doctrines of the gospel

The essential doctrines of the gospel

(Charles Spurgeon)

The doctrines of . . .
  original sin,
  unconditional election,
  definite atonement,
  effectual calling, and
  final perseverance,
are, I believe, the essential doctrines of the gospel of Jesus Christ--but we do not regard these five points as being barbed shafts which we are to thrust between the ribs of our fellow-Christians. We look upon them as being five great lamps which help to irradiate the cross; or, rather, five bright emanations springing from the glorious covenant of our Triune God, and illustrating the great doctrines of Jesus crucified!