The fact that the Gospel is so simple is what makes it so offensive.  We’re hard working Americans.  We work hard for hard-earned rewards.  And then along comes Jesus who tells us the work of God is simply to believe.  Faith in Christ isn’t a license for laziness, but neither is it the icing on the cake we’ve worked so hard to bake.  Jesus calls anyone and everyone to have faith in Him and follow Him.  To those with a religious pedigree, He says your works aren’t what pays your way.  To those with a shameful record, He says your past won’t keep you out of His kingdom.  It’s quite simple: “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”