This being the 2011 Christmas season our pastors are preaching on Advent topics. On December 4th, Rev. Ted Wright posed the question: “Is Jesus the Only Way to Heaven?”
The short answer is ‘Yes’, for Christians that is. If so, then why did Rev. Ted preach this sermon? Over the summer, our pastors asked us for sermon topics and this question was raised by several submitters because several parishioners feel there were other paths to Heaven. This idea of anything goes is reinforced by TV. I like the TV show Royal Pains especially the character Divya Katdare played by Reshma Shetty. When USA Network ran its “Characters Unite” commercials in December 2009, Reshma said among other things that she believes “in all paths to God.” As a Christian, I was not happy to hear this because I know there is only one path to God: Jesus of Nazareth, the Christ.
In America we have many freedoms and many religious beliefs. But, for some reason, in recent decades, the two are hitting heads. I respect Reshma’s right to say what she believes but I was concerned that less staunch Christians would take this as confirmation that the margin to enter Heaven is wider than they are taught. It is not. John 14:6 says it simply and clearly:
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me…” (NIV)
“Jesus is a present Saviour, and the way to Him is short; it is but a simple renunciation of our own merit, and a laying hold of Jesus, to be our all in all.” (CH Spurgeon, 2/4 PM).
In the current political climate, Christians are not supposed to speak up and out for and in defense of our beliefs. As an American, I have the same right to say there is God as those who say there isn’t one. So, why is my freedom of speech being curtailed?
In the current political and social climate, Christians have become lax in evangelism. To be clear, evangelism is not shoving our beliefs down someone else’s throat. We are to live out our beliefs by example and avail ourselves of opportunities to tell others how great Jesus has been to us.
Mohammad and Buddha never claimed to be God (Buddha didn’t even believe in God) and did not die for our sins. Hebrews 9:22 states “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” Mohammad and Buddha were not resurrected – be aware Jesus was seen by many people AFTER his death. “And we have seen and do testify that the Father has sent his Son as the Savior of the world.” (1 John 4:14, NRSV)
In sum, the world’s religions do not worship the same God and all paths do not lead to Heaven, just the one.
Father, forgive those who do not understand. Amen
