Jesus Christ, The Only Way

"There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." -Proverbs 14:12 [KJV]

This is a melancholy truth, “All flesh has corrupted his way upon the earth” (Genesis 6:12.) From sad experience of this, Jeremiah confesses, “O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: It is not in man who walketh to direct his steps” (Genesis 10:23.) ALL we like sheep have gone astray: we have turned every one to his own way, says Isaiah 53:6. O it is a most blessed thing to be convinced of this and humbly pray with David, “See if there be any way of wickedness in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:24.) 

We can never enough call to mind, love and praise our Good Shepherd, Who came to seek, and save us, from our own way, which seemeth right in our eyes. What way is this? A most dangerous one. It is the way of wickedness, in which we have strong confidence of our own righteousness. Every man is naturally in this way. The most openly profane, as well as the decent Pharisee, possesses some hope in himself, that he has done, or can do something to save himself, and that his way is right, and shall end well at the last. 

The worst of men must think at times, if destitute of all hope, black despair must ensue. A false hope, built upon self-righteousness, keeps up their spirits. How long? Till they go down to hell with a lie in their right hand: Or till the Spirit of God convinces them of sin: shews them their condemnation for sin: and that they are destitute of righteousness—that nothing short of an absolute perfect one, can justify them before God—and that this is only to be found in the Son of God. Now every way leads to some end. The way that seems right in a man’s own eyes, will end in death: in the death of hope, and destruction of the soul. 

The man, who is in this way, that seemeth right unto him, is ever exalting his own righteousness, and decrying the imputed righteousness of Christ. Stop, O soul, and consider, what way art thou in? That which seems right in thy own sight, or, that which God declares is right in his? Remember, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he who hearkeneth unto counsel is wise” (Proverbs 12:15.) Jesus is our counsellor. Hearken to him. He says, ***“I am the way”*** (John 14:6.) 

The only way, exclusive of every other way, of pardon from God, peace and acceptance with God, justification before God, and enjoyment of God. This is the good old way, walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. -Jeremiah 6:16

 

O Christ, Who art the only way 

Unto eternal life, 

Preserve and keep my soul each day 

From unbelieving strife. 

There’s many ways that lead to death, 

Which foolish men pursue: 

Lord keep me in the way of faith, 

The only way and true.

 

-preacher Wm. Mason (1724-1797 A.D.)