The Uniqueness and Universality of Christ (Part 1)

Today’s reading is Section 3 of the Lausanne Covenant - The Uniqueness and Universality of Christ. Read Here.

We affirm that there is only one Saviour and only one gospel, although there is a wide diversity of evangelistic approaches. We recognize that everyone has some knowledge of God through his general revelation in nature. But we deny that this can save, for people suppress the truth by their unrighteousness. We also reject as derogatory to Christ and the gospel every kind of syncretism and dialogue which implies that Christ speaks equally through all religions and ideologies.

One Saviour, One Gospel

There is only one Saviour and one gospel. Some claim the New Testament contains contradictory gospels, but this ignores the unity of the apostles’ message (1 Corinthians 15:11). Paul warns that even if he—or an angel from heaven—preached a gospel other than the one the believers had received, that messenger should be cursed (Galatians 1:6-9).

What about those who have never heard the gospel or who follow other religions? All people have some knowledge of God through his ‘general’ revelation, given to everyone, and through ‘natural’ revelation—what is seen externally in the world around us (Romans 1:19-21) and what is experienced internally in the human conscience (Romans 2:14-15).

But this is not saving knowledge. It reveals God’s power, deity, and holiness (Romans 1:20a), but not his love for sinners or his plan of salvation. Also, people do not live according to the knowledge they have (Romans 1:18), and their rejection of truth leads to idolatry, immorality, and God’s judgment (Romans 1:21-32). Instead of saving them, this knowledge condemns them, leaving them without excuse (Romans 1:20b).

Therefore, it is wrong to believe that salvation can be found through other systems, or that Christ speaks equally through all religions and ideologies. We reject all syncretism because it dishonours Christ and the gospel. Christ and his gospel are unique, and non-Christian religions do not know them.

Reflection:

Why is it essential to affirm that salvation is found only in Christ and not through any other way?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, keep me faithful to your gospel alone, and give me courage to proclaim you as the only Saviour.