According to a new survey from Probe Ministries, nearly 70% of “evangelical Christians” disagree with the Bible’s teaching that Jesus Christ is the only way to God. After affirming the following two statements–“I made a personal commitment to Jesus Christ” and “I will go to Heaven because I confessed my sins and accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior”–these same people said they would not try to convert someone to their religion. The top three reasons are: “They can get to Heaven through their different religious beliefs”; “We shouldn’t impose our ideas on others”; “The Bible tells us not to judge others.” This is a reflection of the gross biblical ignorance that exists in the vast majority of churches in America. Instead of serious Bible study and effectual prayer and holy pilgrim Christian living, there is rock & roll, conformity to the pop culture, an emphasis on self-esteem, a wholesale rejection of biblical separatism. Even in James’ day, there were Christians who were friends of the world, and he gave the following recipe for revival: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up” (James 4:8-10). America’s most desperate need is for pastors of James’ spiritual caliber and courage.
(Friday Church News Notes, November 26, 2021, www.wayoflife.org, fbns@wayoflife.org, 866-295-4143)