The Path Set by God
God calls each of us to follow a clearly marked path. This isn’t a route of convenience or personal preference; it’s a path defined by obedience and trust in His will. As Jesus taught, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6, NASB). God’s instructions leave no room for shortcuts or alternative routes. Following His commands is the only way to remain on the journey He has laid out, as all attempts to bypass His path lead to failure and frustration.
No Shortcuts in Life or Faith
Life teaches us that true achievements require diligence and perseverance. The great accomplishments in science, medicine, and exploration didn’t come from shortcuts but from sustained effort and patience. Similarly, God’s path to salvation has always involved a complete commitment, not an easy or shortcut route. The Bible emphasizes that Israel had to follow God’s instructions to escape bondage in Egypt, and there was no simple, fast way to the Promised Land. Today, people who seek quick fixes and easy answers in matters of faith miss the transformative journey that God intends.
God’s Long Journey for Salvation
The history of God’s work with humanity demonstrates that His plans unfold over time and are not rushed. It took forty centuries to develop and bring about the full plan of salvation, culminating in the death and resurrection of Jesus. The same is true of many other instructions in Scripture:
- Noah took years to build the ark, following God’s precise commands to ensure safety for his family (Genesis 6).
- Miriam’s healing required time and obedience, as she was commanded to be shut out of the camp for seven days (Numbers 12:15).
- Saul was instructed to completely destroy the Amalekites, a task that left no room for taking “the best” as spoils of war, emphasizing obedience over personal judgment (1 Samuel 15:3).
These examples reinforce that God does not permit shortcuts in His divine instructions, and each act of obedience plays a part in His greater plan.
The Church of Christ: God’s Way to Heaven
Jesus established the Church, teaching that it is the body through which believers connect with Him. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declares, “Upon this rock I will build My church,” illustrating that His church is built upon the foundation of truth and His sacrifice. Many attempt to customize or create their own paths to God, but only one way has been consecrated by His blood. As Acts 20:28 says, “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock… to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”
Obedience in Baptism
In His command to “go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NASB), Jesus made clear that baptism is not optional but essential. Yet, some seek to bypass this, claiming it is “non-essential.” Jesus Himself said, “He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved” (Mark 16:16). No shortcuts will suffice here; baptism is a command for all who desire to enter the kingdom of God.
Following the Whole Path
Jesus stressed that true faith is more than verbal profession; it’s demonstrated in full obedience. Many churches promote ideas like “faith only” or invite people to simply “sign a card” or “join the church of your choice” as a means of salvation. However, God’s way is specific and not subject to change. As Matthew 7:21 reminds us, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.” Entering the kingdom requires adherence to every aspect of God’s teachings, including repentance, confession, baptism, and faithful living.
Conclusion: No Other Way
There is no alternative path to God’s kingdom. The only route is “the way of Christ’s blood.” Without obedience to Christ’s commands, including baptism, the gift of His sacrifice cannot benefit us. This message, though straightforward, is crucial: salvation requires us to follow the instructions of our Lord. Just as He shed His blood for our salvation, we must respond in faith and obedience. There is but one way—through Christ, by following His commands in full.
The Simple Gospel 