Inclusive or Exclusive?

 

“Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Romans 10:9

 

Critics often claim, in their opposition to the Gospel, that it is exclusive.

And actually they are partially correct.

The Good News of the Gospel itself is inclusive but entrance into the

Kingdom of God is indeed exclusive.

Let’s look first at just a few verses that speak to the only entry point:

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.

No one comes to the Father except through me.”

John 14:6

“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.

They will come in and go out, and find pasture.”

John 10:9

“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.”

Acts 4:12

Yes, the Gospel is exclusive in that there is one way only to the Father and that is through Jesus Christ.

No other way is possible.

Not Mohammed, Not Buddha, Not good works.

Only Jesus!

But it is also inclusive in that the opportunity to be saved is extended to all.

Here is some of the evidence –

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16

“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 3:36

“The righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe...”

Romans 3:22

So, the question is not one of whether or not God is fair.

It is not even a question of inclusiveness or exclusivity.

The real question is – What will you do with Jesus?

That is a question only you can answer.

God has provided the Lamb.

Will you receive Him?