In 1 Corinthians 8:4-7, in reference to idols, the Apostle Paul wrote: “Therefore concerning the eating of things offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live. However, there is not in everyone that knowledge…” (1 Cor. 8:4-7a, emphasis mine).
This fact, that “there is not in everyone that knowledge” in our world today, is brought out forcefully and with precision in Erwin Lutzer’s timely book, Christ Among Other Gods: A Defense of Christ in an Age of Tolerance.
This book, written against the backdrop of the Parliament of the World’s Religions (which met in Chicago in 1993), shows how our culture demands toleration of the myriad of beliefs about God. We are told that in this age of tolerance, we are to accept anyone and everyone, no matter what their belief system, with the notable exception of those who happen to believe that there is only one true God, only one exclusive way to God, that being the Lord Jesus Christ.
Lutzer’s book is highly definitive as to the issues and concepts of pluralism, relativism, and biblical Christianity. It effectively and accurately speaks to the mindset and belief system of our contemporary culture, revealing why and where the world system is headed. In the face of our increasingly pluralistic society, this book is a refreshing and effective defense of Christ and the gospel.
Mr. Lutzer shows that throughout the world there is a grandiose movement, a “religious tidal wave,” which has as its purpose to bring together all beliefs, all gods, and all peoples. This pseudo-spiritual storm surge is to break down the barriers which divide, resulting in the unifying of all, for the common good. According to the promoters of the movement, those who don’t catch this wave of global religious unity, will drown. He then shows how the Lord Jesus Christ, who said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (Jn. 14:6), does not significantly figure into the equation.
In contrast to this grand flood of pluralistic relativism, the author presents a clear, uncompromising presentation of the preeminence and exclusivity of Jesus Christ and the gospel of grace.
After briefly outlining the historical and philosophical development of uncritical tolerance of any and all beliefs, in no uncertain terms Christ is presented as the one and only Way to God, and as the one and only God. The book gives clear focus and a strong emphasis to the Person and work of Christ and the saving gospel, systematically discussing His virgin birth, His sinless life, and His unmitigated authority. The death, burial, resurrection, ascension, and second coming of Christ are all masterfully delineated in a way that leaves no doubt as to His exclusiveness and uniqueness. Christ and the Christian faith do indeed stand alone.
Clear and concise, Lutzer’s book is not laden with highly technical, theological jargon, yet it is presented intelligently, with credible scholarship and thorough preparation. It presents Christ and His work clearly and effectively, as revealed in Scripture. Is Jesus Christ just one among many gods, or is He Someone special–the one and only unique Son of God (Jn. 1:18; 3:16; etc.)? Lutzer makes it clear that He is indeed Lord and God, the divine Word made flesh. He shows why Jesus Christ is far different from all other gods, and why neither He nor the Christian faith can be amalgamated with other religions.
This is an excellent book to use with non-Christians who have a sincere desire to know God, and who are willing to investigate the uniqueness of the Person and work of Christ. It can also be a valuable tool for believers who seek to “be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks…a reason for the hope that is in [them]” (1 Pet. 3:15). When we are asked why we believe that Christ is God, and the only way to God, this book provides biblical answers. This book, as one old sage used to say, “is no brag, just fact,” presenting the one and only Lord Jesus Christ.