When the Bible interferes with Man’s Theology

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For there is no other name given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:12

You’ve probably heard analogies similar to this: “God is at the top of the mountain. All denominations and religions are trying to get to God at the top of the mountain. As long as we’re sincere, or do enough good works, we will get to God and His heaven.”

If you listen to pop culture, academia or mainstream media, their definitions would be similar. (If He’s acknowledged at all.)

It’s ironic to me how man tries to speak for God, never considering what God says about Himself.

But God does describe Himself. God makes it crystal clear that He exists and He explains to mankind how to be right with Him. It’s not through more good deeds than bad. It’s not through moral living. It’s not through charitable giving. It’s not through religious affiliations or memberships or through a grandmother who was a devout believer.

God says:

“Salvation is found in no one else [but Jesus]. For there is NO OTHER NAME given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12; caps mine)

Jesus told them, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

Jesus is the narrow gate.

Corrie Ten Boom once said: “When the Bible interferes with man’s theology, it always causes a strain.”

Without a doubt the Bible’s teaching causes a strain in our highly-charged, politically correct culture. Deep within each of us, we want to be accepted. We don’t want to be laughed at or impugned or misrepresented. We don’t want to seem narrow-minded or accused of being intolerant.

This makes it very tempting to bend our beliefs to the ever-changing culture. A culture that continually redefines concepts of right and wrong; acceptable and unacceptable.

But sweet girlfriends in Christ, as hard as it is in some of our social circles, we can’t acquiesce. God, and He alone, determine the “rules” for being right with Him – not man or culture.

My Pastor recently reminded us that God’s way is exclusive. Salvation was not a free handout. It required a high payment. People whose hearts are marred by sin cannot come near our holy God or His heaven. Only Jesus was qualified to pay the price required by God. A gift He offers to all, regardless of religion or nationality. It’s up to us as individuals to accept His gift.

“To all who believe Him and accept Him, He gives the right to become a child of God.” John 1:12

“[Jesus] is the stairway between heaven and earth.” John 1:51

Heaven’s doors are open to anyone who is willing to call on the name of Jesus as Savior. Don’t let pop culture or anyone else persuade you otherwise.

For more information about Knowing God personally, click here.