Creator, Father, King #221

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

Oh boy.

The disciples knew something bad—really bad—was about to happen, but they weren’t exactly sure what. Jesus had spoken many times about his upcoming departure. Now, as the group made its way to the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus mentioned his looming exit from this world once again.

He told his friends he was leaving to prepare an eternal home for them and eventually return to bring them there. Then, he said something curious: “You know the way to where I am going.”

Thomas was confused.

“We have no idea where you are going,” he said, “so how can we know the way?”

Jesus replied, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” (You can read the full account of this interaction in John 14:1-14.)

What’s It Mean?

Jesus’ claim was astounding. In no uncertain terms, he declared that he—and only he—is the exclusive door through which we must pass to get to heaven. There is no other path, no other key, and certainly no shortcut available.

Jesus’ bold statement left no room for misinterpretation. Of course, he had to back it up—which he did later that week through his sinless, sacrificial death on the cross and his miraculous resurrection.

For the next four days, we’re going to study some important questions related to this topic:

• Is Christianity true while all other religions are false? (Spoiler alert: Yes!)
• If so, how can we be assured that Christianity is the only true faith?
• Why isn’t it possible for all religions to lead to heaven?
• If all other beliefs except true Christianity are wrong, how could a loving God send billions of people to hell?
• How should we react when people are offended by our faith and Christianity’s claims of exclusive, absolute truth?

These are questions of huge significance, both for this life and for eternity. It’s critical to know the truth and be confident in what you believe about God and the salvation he provides only through his Son.

As today’s verse tells us, Jesus is the only way to heaven, and if you believe this truth, you will have eternal life!

Now What?

Memorize John 14:6. It will serve you well in life!

Did You Know?

The words of the apostle Peter in Acts 4:12 are very similar to today’s verse.