It is culturally unpopular, extremely personal, and often misrepresented. It is profound and simple simultaneously. What is it?
It is the true message of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
When Jesus was asked by Thomas how to follow him, Jesus responded simply with:
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father, but through me.”
— John 14:6
Jesus cuts through the emotions and doubts that generate fear in Thomas. He does not apologize or leave room for debate. He does not declare to be “one of the ways” to the Father. He does not proclaim to be “part of the truth.”
Thomas could either take Jesus at his word or not. Was it part of a riddle, or all of the truth? Thomas believed it to be the truth, following Jesus in obedience and dying as a martyr for his faith.
No one can force you to believe in Jesus as the Savior of the world. Theologians have formulated arguments to validate his claim for centuries. Cynics have done the opposite. Unbelievers made fun of the simplicity, challenged the veracity, and laughed at his audacity.
But, when we remove ourselves from the noise and rhetoric of the world and return to Scripture, Thomas asked a profound question. Jesus gave him a simple answer. Jesus is the way.
Similarly, when an earthquake shook the prison cell doors open and unfastened their chains while Paul and Silas sang, the frightened jailer asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” Their response, like the response of Jesus was simple – “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:30-31)
I know it to be true in my life, and I have seen him change the lives of others.
Against the constant tide we must refuse;
We cannot compromise and lose.
Despite the chance of strain and strife,
Small is the gate that leads to life.
He left his throne to take on skin,
To split the veil of love and sin.
Lessons shown and taught in full,
He will return to reign and rule.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.