by TL Schlater

Created on: October 18, 2008

Is Jesus the only way of salvation?

What we believe determines where we spend eternity. Our choices determine our outcome. When we choose to do wrong, we face consequences. When we choose to do right, we face blessings.

Were I to die in this world without knowing Jesus as my personal (intimate) Lord and Savior, I would be choosing to spend eternity in hell, forever separated from God, separated from my family, separated from my friends. There are no parties in hell. There is no laughter, no silence; no one to talk to, to confide in. There is screaming, there is cursing, there is the crackle of flame and the smell of burning souls. There are cries of anguish and unrepentant wails. Flames that never get extinguished are constantly touching every part of me. A taste of cool water on my tongue sounds like relief when my whole body is on fire.

But that is not my destiny. And I would prefer it not to be yours either. But I can't save you from your sins. I can't make you believe Jesus Christ. I can't force you against your will to believe that Jesus is the only way of salvation. Decision 2008 is not about who we are voting into office as president of the United States in November. Decision 2008 is today. "Who you know determines where you go" is not just a bumper sticker. It's a way of life.

Jesus is life. Jesus is the only way of salvation. Salvation from what, though? Salvation from an eternity spent apart from a righteous, loving, just God. Salvation from sin and its consequences. But then what is sin? Sin is intentional disobedience to God's Word; rebelling against God's will. God determines what is fair and what is unfair. As both Judge and Savior, God is the Supreme Authority over everything and everyone. You and I were created with the power to choose. Right or wrong, we make choices we have to live with. I choose Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I have already given Him my heart and my life.

I believe that the Holy Bible is the Written Word of God. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God. I believe that when I read my Bible out loud, even if no one else can hear me, I am hearing the Spoken Word of God. Knowledge is at our fingertips, belief is in our minds, love is on our tongues, and life is in our hearts. Therefore, when we quote Scripture, or use Bible verses in our everyday language, we are testifying of our relationship with God through His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.

In the Book of John, chapter 14 and verse 6, Jesus clearly states to all who listen "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man comes to the Father, but by Me." I believe. Do you?

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