Theme of the Day: He Lives to Be the Only Way to Heaven
The gospel is the most inclusive message in the world. The benefits of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are meant for every man, woman, and child who ever lived. The gospel is also the most exclusive message in the world, for it maintains that salvation can only be found in one place—the person of Jesus Christ. Just listen to how Jesus speaks: “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Jesus doesn’t say, “I will show you the true way to eternal life.” And note that definite article: “the,” not “a”! Jesus is not a way into heaven. He is the way. There is no other way than through faith in the One who died and rose again.
The unbelieving world finds this claim—that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven—to be the most offensive teaching in all of Scripture. Yet this is the very truth upon which Christ builds his Church.
John 14:1-11
Acts 4:8-12
1 Peter 2:4-10
Psalm 118
467 – With High Delight Let Us Unite
469 – Welcome, Happy Morning
512 – All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name
698 – Seek Where You May to Find a Way
920 – Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation
Prayer of the Day: O God, you form the minds of your faithful people into a single will. Make us love what you command and desire what you promise, that among the many changes of this world, our hearts may ever yearn for the lasting joys of heaven; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Alleluia.