Brian spoke of the only way to heaven today at church. And I have had this discussion with him before. And yes, I agree to the same answer: Jesus is the way to heaven. I agree with all of that. I chose to believe that and I, as an adult, confessed this at my baptism.
So what about all the other religions or beliefs in this world. I have Jewish friends...will they not go to heaven? What about other religions...Hinduism, Islam...they won't go either?
I am really asking here. I mean, really..asking. No idea. I know what the Bible says. I know that is the book I chose to believe.
But don't the people who belive in THEIR religions also passionatley believe in their books as I believe in mine? Are they sitting in their services saying the same things about us? What if they are right? I mean , how do you really , really know until the end? Yes, I have a gut feeling....which I am obviously betting my eternity on it...but I've had super, duper gut feelings too about other things...and I was wrong.
So, what do you say to your friends of other religions? Jesus said to love all. And to minister to all. SO what if it causes you that friendship? Do you NOT talk about it to them if you are scared of losing that friendship? Then you are NOT doing what God says to do, right? It's a think line. I mean I will not say to my friend who is Jewish that she will not go to heaven unless she changes her ideas of God and Jesus. And who am I to say that to her?
So, opinions here please. thanks
2 comments:
Karen, I have been thinking about this blog post a lot. I didn't comment when I read it, initially, because I didn't have an answer for you. There is no easy answer to this question. Like you, I do believe Jesus is the only way. He's the door. I would recommend that you look not for an across-the-board answer but case-by-case answers. Pray individually for each person of a different faith who crosses your path. Ask God to show you what to do. Ask Him to fill your mouth with His words and to use you in the way He thinks best. Your words will be different for different people and interactions. And, sometimes, you may have no words: just your bright Jesus light. God bless you and your friends.
Karen,
It's a major question for MANY of us. It's something I wrestle with, too.
I don't often actually TALK to someone about my faith if they are passionate about theirs, unless they open the door (which they often do if you are respectful). Usually, I ask them questions about their faith and listen without judgment and then they become open to asking me about mine.
But more important than talking is lifestyle. Does my life reflect the truth of Jesus' teachings? Do they see in me someone who TALKS one way and LIVES another? Or does my life give them pause and create a curiosity that causes them to wonder about my faith?
You are right...we are supposed to love every person - I don't care what they believe. My #1 role is to love them.
Great questions, Karen!
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