THE ONLY WAY OF SALVATION

THE ONLY WAY OF SALVATION

In a day of compromise, arbitration, and concession, the thought of there being only "One Way to Live," is offensive to some. Jesus was not a lunatic when he affirmed: "I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the father, but by me" (John 14:6). Notice the following:

1. Jesus is the way out. He is the way out of sin. Sin deceives and many are enslaved without realizing it. Some say, like the ancient Pharisees, "we are not under bondage" (John 8:33). This denial is based upon a limited understanding of sin and moral wrongdoing. Sin will mani- fest itself by blatant actions such as stealing, killing, and immorality, but may also be attitude and ambitions. Only Jesus can deliver from the slavery of sin (John 8:32-33: "32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

33 They answered him, "We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, 'You will become free'?"

2. Jesus is the way through. When illnesses, disappointments, and failures come, Jesus is the way through these difficulties. Just as Israel needed the cloud by day and light by night, so we need a guide that assists us through the dangers of evil and wrong. Jesus is also the way through an uncertain future. Jesus gives us hope for the future. Experience confirms the need for strong daily faith.

3. Jesus is the way in. Jesus gives life in abundance. All seek satisfaction, yet some are confused in thinking an affluent life is equivalent to abundant living. Jesus said, "The thief cometh not, but for to seal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10). He is the way to have inexpressible joy; a condition much deeper and permanent than happiness. Happiness to many depends on circumstances, yet Christ brings joy even in the midst of the most adverse circumstances.

4. Jesus is the way up. He enables us to reach greater potential. We're made to love, worship and serve the Lord. Someone once said, "If you would find the best potatoes, go to Idaho; the best onions, go to Michigan; the best apples, go to Washington; the best peaches, go to Georgia; the best sailors, go to Annapolis; the best soldiers, go to West Point; but to find the best being, you must go to Jesus." He alone will lift you up to heights never imagined before.

5. Jesus is the way to Heaven. If you sought a guide to a location never visited before, you would not choose a guide who had never visited your desired destination, but you would seek one who knew the way. Jesus left the splendors of being with the Father and came in poverty to a world filled with sin. He seeks to guide us back to His home.

John 14:2 In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?

Revelation 21:4He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

Philippians 1:21-23 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.

John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 17:3And this is eternal life,that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.

Acts 4:12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."