By Jim Josephsen
Mainstream Christians fit perfectly the Biblical portrayal of
individuals living in the end time; having a form of godliness but
denying the power thereof. The New Living Translation renders this
statement by the Apostle Paul as follows: “They will act as if they
are religious but will reject the power that could make them godly.”
It is obvious Christians at large, embody this prophetic
description; but none greater than American Christians.
A recent survey conducted by the
Pew Forum on
Religion & Public Life produced a most distressing finding. Seventy
percent of Americans with a religious affiliation (the majority
labeling themselves Christian) don’t feel their religion is the only
way to eternal life. Although it is thought this finding promotes a
positive view of an ever increasing “religious tolerance” within
America (you know, increased political correctness), the sad reality
is the Christian faith is becoming ever more transient, blending in
practice, diminished in power, empty and vain.
The survey also noted, within mainline Protestantism, 83 percent
believe more than one religion can provide the way to eternal life;
of the members of Black Protestant churches 59 percent agree.
Additionally, 79 percent of Catholics accept this concept.
Interestingly, of those of the Jewish faith, 82 percent think theirs
is not the only way to eternal life.