Q:
I think it's wrong for any religion to claim that it's the only way to God. In my view, all religions lead to the same place. Don't you think we ought to be more tolerant toward people of different religions?
A:
Freedom of religion is written into our nation’s constitution, and I certainly hope and pray this never changes. Over the years, I’ve visited countries that don’t have religious freedom, and it almost always has led to persecution for those in the minority. Intolerance and religious hatred have no place in civilized society. The Bible says, “Show proper respect to everyone” (1 Peter 2:17).
But I respectfully disagree with your view that all religions are alike, and all lead to the same place. Have you honestly ever studied the major religions of the world? If you do, you’ll discover they often contradict each other, so how can they all be true? For example, some claim there are thousands of gods and goddesses, but how can that be reconciled with those who believe in only one God? It can’t — not logically.
This is why I urge you to look at Jesus Christ as He is found in the pages of the New Testament. He made a startling claim — that He was God, who came down from heaven to save us from our sins and give us eternal life.
Was Jesus a liar? No, because He backed up His claim by breaking the bonds of death and coming back from the grave. He came because He loves us, and He knew this was the only way we could be saved. Don’t be deceived, but open your heart and mind to Jesus Christ. His words are true: “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).