In this era of "political correctness" we are seeing an increase
in the pressures of multiculturism and diversity emerging. With
it is coming a turning away from Christianity and its beliefs and
a movement towards accepting all religions.
While the Christian faith sets forth that there is one God
(the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) and that the only way to
salvation and an eternal life in heaven is through Jesus Christ,
other religions are saying that we all worship the same God.
Many are glossing over the idea that salvation comes only through
Jesus Christ with the statement that all men will be saved.
After all, they say " If God is truly a God of love, then He will
send all people to heaven. He would never condemn anyone to an
eternal punishment"
Recently on his nightly news cast, Bill O'Reilly of Fox News made
some interesting statements when the matter of repentance and
baptism arose.. I will admit that I really like him as a news
commentator but I have strong questions about his theology.
He said, "We have in Catholicism a loophole there. You know,
that's why I like my religion because it's an interesting religion.
We have something called baptism by desire, and that means you can
be baptized by living a good life even if you're not a believer
because Catholics believe faith is a gift." He went on to state,
"I think God forgives all people who lead good lives through this
baptism of desire. That makes sense."
It seems that O'Reilly, like many people, is searching for loopholes
in the Bible. While it might come as a shock to some people, there
are no loopholes in the Bible. God's Word is set forth clearly and
firmly. The person who is searching for a loophole or a way to
sidestep God's Word is in for a big surprise.
No doubt there are many who do not like the concept of a faith in
Jesus being the only way to salvation and much prefer the idea that
all people worship the same god and are working to go to the same
place and that no one will be left out of heaven. That is fine
but it in no way makes the teachings of Jesus any less valid.
The Bible tells us that if you do not believe that Jesus is who He
claimed to be, you will die in your sins.
by
Max R. Tyner, Pastor
Good Shepherd Evangelical Church
Geronimo, Texas
