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Archive 2025

No Salvation, Except in Jesus Only ( Acts 4:12)

D A OLIVA / 2021-12-10

Introduction

A. This passage is familiar to many, yet how can this be fully explained to seekers of God's salvation in Christ?

1. This must be explained through God's words as Jesus said, " You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free," John 8:32

2. This subject will be tackled in the following manner:

a. Explain the exclusivity of salvation in Christ

b. Exclusivity is similar to copyright, patent or franchise

c. World's responses to Jesus' claim of Exclusivity

Discussion

A. Meaning of Exclusive

1.It means " only in Christ" is spiritual salvation found from the beginning till the end of time

B. Similarities to Exclusivity

1. Jesus' exclusivity as Savior is similar to copyright to a book, patent to an invention or franchise to a business idea/ product/ service

2. Copyright suggests originality as stated in Christ becoming the author of salvation, Hebrews 2:10

3. Jesus is described as the author of salvation ( Greek " archegos") which means originator, trailblazer or pioneer for He set the pattern

4. As the author, Jesus wrote the terms or conditions of salvation, e.g. Mark 16:16

5. In John 14:6, the use of definite article " the" on the way, the truth and the life" suggests exclusivity

6. A franchisee has the authority to make, sell a product; provide the training of the crew and the services needed

7. To copy Jesus' divine authorship on salvation ( manufacture/ sell His product of salvation) so to speak, would be illegal, criminal and punishable by law, Matthew 28:18; Romans 3:23; 6:23

8. The preceding verses confirm that " no man has the right to author, to patent or to franchise" Christ's brand of salvation

C. Reasons for Christ's Exclusivity to Salvation

1. Christ was not a sinner and never committed any sin, I Peter 2:22

2. Jesus, as the Son of God, had pre- existence and came down to earth to save mankind, Philippians 2:5-8

3. As He was pure and sinless, He was the only sacrifice/ savior for no one can duplicate His qualifications, anywhere and anytime.

D. World's Responses to Christ's Claim on Exclusivity

1.The Jews rejected Christ for claiming that He was the prophesied Messiah and King of the Jews

- Instead of believing in Jesus and His teachings, the Jews followed the Mosaic Law and their own traditions

- Jesus was born in a manger; entered Jerusalem on an ass/donkey; preached love and peace to all men

2.But to the Gentiles ( Greeks, Romans and others) Jesus was a weak leader and died as a criminal on the cross, I Corinthians 1:23

3. Today, millions of people call on venerated saints and Mary, rather than on Jesus as the only Savior of the world

- calling on venerated saints and Mary spring from the doctrine of indulgences that good deeds can be transferred by prayers

Conclusion

A. What is your response to Jesus' claim on Exclusivity as the Savior of the world?

1. Jesus said, " Unless you believe in Md, you will die in your sins?" John 8:24

2. This is both a challenge and an invitation to believe in Jesus, confess Him as Lord and Savior, repent of sins and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins and to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit- Mark 16:16, Hebrews 11:6 and Acts 2:38

3. Salvation is today, not tomorrow, 2 Corinthians 6:2 and so don't postpone your decision to obey Jesus

4. Life is short, James 4:14 " for it is like a mist or a vapor!"

5. Christ may return anytime and no one knows the day or the hour. So we have to be ready all the time.

6. Christ personally invites you now, Matthew 11:28-30