Every now and again people who claim to be Christians say things that suggest belief in Jesus Christ isn’t essential.
They often do it trying to be sympathetic toward people in areas where some other religion dominates and access to the Bible isn’t abundant.
Sometimes it’s done for sympathy toward “sincere” people who for whatever reason disbelieve in Jesus Christ.
Even if these statements come from good intentions, the sentiment is false.
Without hesitation or apology Jesus said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (See John 14:6)
This wasn’t a sentiment he only expressed to his disciples. When Jesus taught in the temple in John 8 the Bible records “And He said to them, ‘You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” (John 8:23-24; NKJV)
One consequence of speaking is words have meaning and statements have consequences. In other words: even if we don’t intend to say something wrong, we still can if we aren’t careful.
No matter how considerate we think we are being, if we deny mankind’s need for Jesus Christ we deny the significance of the Gospel and the role of our savior.
Let’s always remember, and help others know, Jesus Christ is the only way to God the Father.