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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Dear Rev. Graham: There’s a lot said about Christian faith being narrow – and it must be! But so many Christian churches today say quite differently that true Christianity accepts everyone regardless of their path, and that the goal of religion is to eradicate all poverty and suffering. To identify with them is to affirm a religion without Jesus Christ. How can these churches get away with calling themselves Christian? – F.C.

 

Dear F.C.: Today’s culture has become well versed in Christian terminology but is remiss in the actual practice of Christ’s principles and teachings. Our greatest need today is not for more Christianity but more true Christians. Some so-called Christian leaders advocate the working out of a system of morals, ethics, and religion that would bring together all the religions of the world. It cannot be done. Jesus Christ is unique! It is Christ who offers salvation to all, but many whose lips call Him Lord reject Him in their hearts.

Some people have said, “It doesn’t really matter what people believe, just so they are sincere. Somehow all paths lead eventually to God, I guess. And if God is a loving God, then everyone will be saved eventually whether they are trusting Christ or have rejected Him.”

But the Bible says otherwise: “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12, NKJV).

The Lord did not design the church to cater to people’s needs – the Lord breathed into the church to proclaim His truths. But while many ponder why God allows suffering and poverty, one answer is certain: He wants His followers to demonstrate the love of God’s love, mercy, and comfort to others, and the church should not seek pleasures but seek to serve God and obey Him.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)