The Gospel Standard was the name given to a magazine which was begun in 1835 and is believed to be the oldest monthly religious magazine still published in England. Founded by the well-known minister and hymnwriter, William Gadsby (together with his son, John), it has always contended strongly for the doctrines of grace (commonly called Calvinism), emphasizing the Holy Spirit's work which results in a personal, experimental knowledge of the truth, and its sanctifying effects in the heart and life.

Soon after its inception, a body of Strict Baptist churches began to gather around the Gospel Standard. This was notably an effect of the preaching of such men as William Gadsby, John Warburton, John Kershaw and J.C. Philpot. These men stood out against the more moderate and general Calvinism which, along with the infusion of a dry and legal spirit, was beginning to appear in Baptist churches. As one old, well-tried Christian exclaimed of these Gospel Standard adherents, "It is not a new doctrine - but the old, preached with life and power." These ministers and churches became known as "Gospel Standard ministers and churches."

Then in 1860 some Strict Baptist ministers and churches began to deny the truth of the eternal Sonship of the Lord Jesus Christ in His divine nature. The Editor of the Gospel Standard magazine, J.C. Philpot, realizing the importance of the issue, contended firmly for this vital doctrine, and called on all those ministers and churches who believed in the eternal Sonship to come forth clearly as a separate body. Thus a list of Gospel Standard churches appeared; there are about 115 at the present time including those from overseas.

The Gospel Standard Trust was formed in 1966 to assist Gospel Standard Churches and Congregations in the furtherance of their religion and charitable work. Publications is just one aspect of the work of the Trust whose aim is to publish literature that commends the free and sovereign grace of Almighty God.