Jesus Is the Only Way

It's clear that there is a significant portion of the Episcopal Church that has gone off the theological deep end, and this article just made me once again shake my head in disbelief:

Muslim Priest and Buddhist Bishop-Elect Are Raising Questions About Syncretism, by George Conger

But syncretism (the reconciliation or fusion of differing religions) isn't just an issue within a few rogue denominations. The article quotes a 2008 survey that found 47% of evangelical Christians in the U.S. "believe that many religions can lead to eternal life." My response is this:

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12

For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5

I can't think of anything more clearly stated than this truth. The belief that all religions will lead to God and heavenly reward is emotionally satisfying, but it is also intellectually dishonest. If we believe the three verses above are true, then we cannot also believe that other religious paths are equally valid.

Similarly, if we insist that many religions lead to heaven, then we are forced to either diminish or dismiss these scriptures altogether. And if we are in the position to dismiss such a clearly stated scriptural truth, what is the point of taking any of the Bible seriously?

While it flies in the face of our current culture, there is an all-or-nothing aspect to true Christianity. As Joshua resolutely said to the Israelites at the end of his life:

"Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15