Starting at the age of twelve, I had a curiosity about spiritual things. I didn’t know much about Christian history or the history of the world in general. I thought it was kind of altruistic to simply think and espouse that ‘all roads lead to heaven’. Its such a nice little thought isn’t it? It excuses grave error and on a surface level equates all of mankind’s futile attempts to please “God”. But then, I discovered the truth, that God had long ago prepared the gospel story for the world. And even before that, He prepared the world for the gospel! Did you know that nearly every ancient people group has a story of the Creator-God and creation account that mirrors the Genesis account in the Bible? I especially like the Mayan and the Chinese accounts (reference Eternity in their Hearts by Richardson). So, when Jesus comes into the world as a descendant of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob- the Son of the living and true God- Yahweh, He is right to declare His exclusivity and to say “I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father, except through me”. You may feel that’s a divisive and non-inclusive statement, but pause, think! If, He really is who He says He is, its the most loving statement ever. In essence, He says all other ways do not lead to God and prepare on for heaven. So don’t waste your time. In Him, and He alone is eternal life. That’s why I can today, reach out and love anyone- but at the same time declare to those in error that I’ve come to know the One who not only has the truth, but is the truth. I am just one beggar, telling other beggars where I’ve found bread. Is anyone hungry and thirsty?
He is the stone which was rejected by you, the builders, but which became the chief cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.” Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus. Acts 4:11-13 NASB
How has the gospel affected my life? What confidence do I have in my Savior and Lord? What miracles have I experienced to affirm the resurrection of Jesus?
God, as this day begins- may I walk in humble confidence sharing the light, love, and truth with all who search for it. May my life be one that helps many find their way to You. I thank You for Jesus and that I have the hope of heaven. In these days, where truth is so rare, may I be one who knows it, shares it, and lives by it. May I study to show myself a workman approved, rightly handling the word of Truth (Bible).
