Different way to interpret Bible

I'm writing in response to the Dec. 1 letter by Roger Anna and the Rev. Audrey deCoursey. One of their statements requires examination: “The Hebrew Scriptures tell us that all peoples will ultimately be united in God's household.” That statement is false.

It is true that “... God our Savior who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:3, 4).”

This is God's desire, and He tells us how to accomplish this in Matthew 7:13-14. In this passage, Jesus says, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.”

The “small gate” Jesus is referring to is Himself, as evidenced in John 14:16. “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Unfortunately, many people reject God's only way to receive eternal life — heaven. They believe eternal life is something that can be earned through one's efforts. In reality, it is something God gives freely to those who receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.

According to the Scriptures, it is only this group (comprising all racial and ethnic groups) who will ultimately be united in God's household.

Mark Foley

Carpentersville