From the very beginning of time, humans have sought to make sense out of life–and death. In our desire to gain knowledge and be like God (Genesis 3), instead of trusting and seeking Him, we have devised religions of every shape and size. We were created with a desire to worship and have a relationship with God. Inside each one of us is a God-shaped hole that can only be filled completely by Him. However, as humans we have a tendency to try to fill this hole in other ways. We have tried to use our own wisdom and we have arrived at conclusions and beliefs that are not based on the truth. Over the span of time with our finite human minds we have created many false gods and false empty religions devoid of any life giving power or eternal hope and peace.
True or False?
It is so important in these days in which we live that we walk in close relationship with the Lord, feasting on His Word, hiding it in our hearts so that we have our “Sword” sharp and ready to challenge false teachings (Ephesians 6:10-18). Spending time in God’s Word, in prayer and in learning to hear God’s voice are vital. It is then that we will know what is true and what is false. In doing so we learn that the following are examples of what is false:
- Any religion or teaching not grounded in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of all (Philippians 2:9-11)
- Any religion or teaching that does not recognize Jesus Christ as the one and only begotten Son of God (John 3:16-17) – the Living Word became flesh (1 John 1:14)
- Any religion or teaching that bases salvation on anything other than in and through Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12)
- Any religion or teaching that seeks to add to the Word of God or views the Word of God as incomplete or tarnished, needing additional “revelation” in the form of other texts (John 17:17)
- Any religion or teaching where “self” is made a god or promotes the idea that we can become gods (Romans 1:18-24)
The Word of God says that the god of this age has blinded the minds of those who do not yet believe (2 Corinthians 4:4). This is evidenced by the flood of people to false religions and false teachings. The Word of God also says that Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). This means that he is especially good at pretending to be good and can even deceive followers of Jesus if they are not vigilant in spending time in prayer, in reading God’s Word and in walking in relationship with Him.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is there are many religions and teachings, but there is only ONE way to heaven and eternal life with God. Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth and the life and no one comes to the Father except through me.” John 3:36 states, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him.”
Perhaps you have realized that you have been following a false religion or false teachings. Now is the time to ask God to open your eyes to see His truth and open your ears to hear His voice above all the others. Repent, or turn away from, what is not true and turn towards Jesus–the way, the truth, and the life. Surrender your life and all that you are to Jesus Christ and allow Him to be not only your Savior from sin, but also Lord of your life. Get a copy of the Bible and read it, asking God to renew your mind with the truth of His Word. I recommend the New International Version or the New American Standard Bible for Bible study and memorization. Pray on the Full Armor of God daily (Ephesians 6:10-17) and stand firm in the Truth.
Eternity – Where will you be?
We are in a battle for our souls. Our eternal destination is at stake. Which side are you on? Where will you be when your life on earth is over? Are you ready to stand before God and give an account of your life? How will you answer His question, “What did you do with Jesus, who is called the Christ?” It won’t matter how devoted you were to your religion. It won’t matter how much good you did in your lifetime. It won’t matter if you attended every church service, said the “right” prayers, fasted, dressed a certain way, or followed all the rules and regulations specified by your particular denomination or religion. The only thing that WILL matter is what you did with Jesus and His invitation to new life in Him. Did you have a growing relationship with Him? Will you hear the words, “Well done good and faithful servant” or “Depart from me for I never knew you?”
The choice is yours today. I hope you will choose to surrender your life to Jesus for it is then that you will know true hope and peace that is found only in Him. Jesus IS the ONLY WAY. Don’t wait…or it may be too late.
Click here for more information about steps to a surrendered life.