Jesus – the only way to salvation

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“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son” (John 3:17-18).

God's Last Word

From the very beginning of time, God sought dialogue with His creation—us humans. This began with the Law of Moses and continued with the prophets He called to speak to His people. However, throughout history, a true dialogue between God and humanity never truly occurred. They never fully understood His will, but instead went astray like sheep (cf. Isaiah 53:6). The reason for this was the hardened hearts of His people. This made them incapable of entering into conversation with God.

This search by God for a dialogue with us humans is particularly well expressed in the parable of the vineyard. It tells the story of a man who planted a vineyard, traveled abroad for a certain period, and leased it to tenants. Again and again, the vineyard owner sent his servants to the vineyard so that he could receive his share. But each time, these servants were beaten, stoned, or killed by the tenants. Finally, this man saw only one option left: to send his only and beloved son. “ Now he had one other son, whom he loved. Last of all, he sent him also to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son! ’” (Mark 12:6).

But the tenants didn't even spare his son and killed him. It is clear that the son in the parable points to Jesus Christ. The Father sent him as a last resort to communicate with His creation. Through Him, people were to see God, since He Himself is God. This speaking through His Son is God's final address to His creation: " In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son " (Hebrews 1:1-2).

Jesus excludes all other ways

Through His Son, God not only spoke for the last time, but also foresaw in His eternal plan that Jesus is the only way to salvation. This automatically excludes all other ways.

But why can Jesus claim this for himself?

1. Flawless Victim

Because God is just and holy, a perfect and spotless sacrifice was needed for the atonement of humanity's sins. This requirement is met only in Jesus Christ, since during His life on earth He was tempted in every way, just as we are, yet remained without sin (cf. Heb 4:15).

2. Devoted Death

Furthermore, it was necessary that blood be shed for the atonement of sins. Through His death on Golgotha, Jesus died in our place and thus accomplished the forgiveness of our sins.

3. Victorious Resurrection

Jesus did not remain in the grave, but completed his work through his victorious resurrection. He is the only one who has conquered death. Because he accomplished this unique work, he was exalted above all by the Father himself.

Based on these points, we can say with conviction that Jesus is the only way to salvation. “ Salvation is found in no other name, for there is no other name under heaven given among mankind by which we must be saved ” (Acts 4:12).

God seeks conversation with you!

Even today, Jesus wants to talk to you. But in a time full of distractions, we have almost forgotten how to hear the voice of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Jesus often speaks to us in silence. But can we ourselves still become silent?

When Jesus began his conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well, he spoke these words: “ If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water ” (John 4:10).

It's the same with us. If we truly recognized who wants to initiate a conversation with us, we would actively seek out opportunities to know Him more and more. For Jesus alone is the living spring and can give you and me the water that quenches the thirst of our souls. He guides us through our daily lives, holds our protective hand over us, and gives peace to our inner being. Jesus is true happiness. Jesus is the way to salvation. But for this, we must be ready to enter into fellowship with Him. This also means putting everything else aside, entrusting ourselves completely to Him, and placing our hope solely in Him. Whoever places their hope in Jesus will not be disappointed!

Paul also wrote the following words on this very topic: “ But whatever were gains to me I consider loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I lost everything. I consider it rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ ” (Philippians 3:7-8).

Are you ready to rethink your approach?

I'd like to tell you one last story: In the USA, a fire once broke out in a high-rise building. The fire department was quickly alerted, and the officers rushed to the scene. After the fire was extinguished, one firefighter gave an interview. He described how he had been standing amidst the flames, searching for survivors. Suddenly, he heard two cries for help coming from different rooms. He immediately realized that there wouldn't be enough time to save both people. So, with a heavy heart, he had to choose between them.

We humans are limited in our abilities. But there is One who can do everything without limit; who can save absolutely everyone. His powers are unlimited. He knows your needs, your desires, and your wishes. Listen to His voice, be ready to change your perspective, and you will experience that true life is found only in Jesus!

Daniel Usinger
Municipality of Speyer