Since its conception, Christianity has been the object of ridicule and rejection. Compounding its opposition, is the consistent refusal of individuals to accept God’s plan of salvation which only comes through Jesus Christ. The world wants to make salvation confusing and complicated in order to be relieved of God’s command to repent and serve Him. So, Christians now are seen as arrogant and ignorant when they declare that Jesus Christ is the only way to receive God’s salvation.
And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Acts 17:30 (KJV).
The above verse is from Paul’s acclaimed sermon to the idol worshippers on Mars Hill. In his discourse, Paul was speaking to a group of people who had all forms of idols and gods that they paid homage to. In their efforts to not overlook any deity, they had an altar built to the UNKNOWN GOD. So, Paul tells them that he would present to them this god.’
How sad a state were these people in. In their quest to please God, they had altars set up to every deity that they could imagine. Remember also, each deity had its own system of worship and service. Though they had many gods, they were still unsure of their position before their gods or of their gods’ existences. They were in a perpetual state of unsurety and confusion. It is very much like today. There are many religions in operation, each declaring their doctrines and practices as the way to God or a righteous life. Yet, many claim that there are others ways to God aside from their religion. How confusing this must be!
One prevailing argument is that if God is so loving and caring why He would allow someone to suffer in eternity? Also, there are so many “good” beliefs systems why does one have to become a Christian in order to go to heaven? The answer to both of these is simple. God loved the world so much that He gave us one way to heaven so that no one will ever have to be unsure as those individuals on Mars Hill.
Since He has made the way to Him so simple, if one rejects Him, it is because they really do not want to serve Him on His terms. He gives one way so that there will be no confusion, but an assurance of one’s relationship with Him and one eternal inheritance.
Jesus Christ is the one way to God. It is not an issue of arrogance and ignorance, but a clear demonstration of God’s love, compassion, and mercy for all men. His command to repent is to all and His salvation is also to all who receive Him.
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