Notes on Lecture: Why Jesus is the Only Savior

Review of Previous Lessons

• Basic doctrines covered in the last few weeks
• Proofs for:
  • The Bible as the Word of God
  • The universality of sin
• Last week discussed the nature of sin and its implications.
• Importance of the Gospel: Christ died for us while we were still sinners.

Topic Introduction: Why Jesus is the Only Savior

• Importance of understanding why Jesus is the only means of salvation in light of cultural exposure to different beliefs.
• Common question: Can people be saved by other means besides Jesus?
• Emphasis on understanding previous teachings about sin as foundational for understanding salvation.

Human Condition and Sin

• Romans 3:9-10: All under sin, no one righteous.
• God left humanity with the problem of sin to lead us to seek Him. (Acts 17:27)
• Romans 3:11: No one seeks God; the need to address sin before seeking salvation.

Human Responses to Sin

• People often do not realize their need for salvation.
• Misconceptions about self-help and inner peace leading to avoidance of true spiritual need.
• Desire for justice and salvation often misplaced in worldly solutions (politics, self-help, etc.)

The Necessity of God for Salvation

• Sin impacts not just the individual but also affects others and is ultimately against God.
• Personal redemption does not account for sin against others or God.
• The idea of personal redemption is flawed as it overlooks the justice required for sin.

Four Key Questions

1. Why did God leave us with the problem of sin?
   • To seek Him for salvation.
2. How do we respond in a world that is not seeking truth?
   • The church must present the reality of sin to lead to the need for God.
3. Is there hope for humanity?
   • Yes, through God; humanity cannot save itself.
4. What must salvation entail?
   • Must satisfy God's justice and be offered eternally.

Why Jesus is the Only Savior

• Qualifications for Salvation:
  • Satisfaction must be without sin. (Jesus is sinless)
  • Satisfaction must meet God's judgment against sin.
  • Satisfaction must be for all sins.
  • Satisfaction must be eternal.
  • Satisfaction must promise life after death.
  • Satisfaction must change men from the inside out.

Examination of Jesus' Qualifications

• Jesus fulfills all criteria:
  • Without Sin: Lived a sinless life.
  • Innocent Death: Died for the sins of others, not His own.
  • For All: His sacrifice is sufficient for all humanity.
  • Eternal: Jesus' sacrifice is eternal; His resurrection ensures everlasting life.
  • Real Change: Offers regeneration through faith in Him, changing believers' hearts.

Biblical Affirmation of Jesus as Savior

• Jesus’ dual nature: fully God and fully man.
  • Acts 4:12: No other name can save.
  • 1 Timothy 2:5: One God, one mediator—Christ Jesus.
  • John 14:6: Jesus as the way, truth, and life.
  • Isaiah 43:11: God as the only Savior.

Summary

• Jesus Christ is the only Savior who meets the qualifications required for salvation.
• All other efforts to seek salvation are insufficient.
• The Gospel offers hope and the means to reconcile with God through faith in Jesus.

Questions and Discussion

• Open for any queries or additional comments from the audience.