Somehow, we find encouragement in knowing we stand on the popular side of a particular issue. Although both sides cite opinion polls to bolster their position, we know that poll results can be skewed by how a question is worded. For example, “What is your favorite soft drink?” will elicit a different response than “You’re not still drinking Dr. Pepper, are you?” While high favorability numbers rule the political and moral landscape of our day, there is a fatal flaw in applying this way of thinking to spiritual matters. God has never ruled by numbers nor legislated by popular opinion (cf. Ex. 23:2).
Case in point: “Will most people go to heaven?” According to the thinking of many, most will be saved, except for the very worst. But, according to the Lord, “no one” can “come to the Father” without going through Him (Jn. 14:6). Peter amplified this truth, saying, “There is salvation is no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Fully two-thirds of the world’s population do not even claim to follow Jesus! And, among those who profess faith in Christ, many do not fully embrace His plan of salvation. Hebrews 5:8-9 tells us that Jesus is “the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey Him.” He will not save those who refuse to follow His teachings.
Jesus illustrated this vital truth in Matthew 7:13-14 where He says, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” Did Jesus say most people will be saved? No. Why not? Because most are unwilling to accept Christ’s right to rule as Lord. Jesus went on to say, “Not everyone who says, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven” (vs. 21).
We must follow God’s word as our guide in religious faith and practice because, while popular opinion polls may tell us what people think; the Bible tells us what God requires and, in the end, we will stand before God alone on the day of judgment (Rm. 14:12).
— Glen Elliott —