A commonly held belief in Western society is that there are many paths which all lead to the same ‘God’. In contrast, the Bible teaches that Jesus is the only way to God.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:11-12
For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:5
How then, should Christians live among people who do not practice Christianity or believe in Jesus? Firstly, we should not attempt to avoid them.
I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. 1 Corinthians 5:10
While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:15-17
Christians are called to live alongside those who do not have the same beliefs, or way of life, in order to demonstrate the gospel of Jesus Christ through words and actions. Non-Christians are not the enemies of Christians.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Epehesians 6:12
Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-2
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15
As Christians, we should live loving, sacrificial lives that demonstrate the love that we have been shown in Christ. We are called to preach the gospel in order that people may hear and respond to the good news of Jesus.