Salvation

“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.”—Acts 4:12 NASB

John Witherspoon was a scholar, educator, and pastor. But in all things, he was known as a man of integrity. Born in Scotland, he received a doctorate degree before immigrating to America. Because of his reputation, he was recruited to be the sixth president of the College of New Jersey (later Princeton University).

Witherspoon gained respect throughout his new homeland with many widely read essays. He supported American independence and was the only clergyman to sign the Declaration of Independence. In 1776, he was elected to the Continental Congress, remaining in Congress throughout the war.

A tireless advocate for religious freedoms, he influenced many people, including James Madison, America’s fourth president. Many ideas Madison wrote as part of the Federalist Papers aided in the ratification of the US Constitution and were based on what he learned from Witherspoon.

Witherspoon passionately believed in biblical Christianity. He believed there was salvation in no one but Jesus. He warned of the consequences of life without Him: “If you are not clothed with the spotless robe of His righteousness, you must forever perish.”

Many think it is foolish to believe the Bible. But it was true for John Witherspoon and still is. As Witherspoon knew, there still is salvation in none other than Jesus. Renew your faith in Him. Stand on the truths in the Bible. Make your faith your foundation.

Reflection Question: Reflect on truths you’ve been learning lately from the Bible.