For many years it was difficult for me to understand the paradox that the Lord is both inclusive and exclusive.
He never keeps a person out of His Kingdom because of race, nationality, gender, age or any other distinguishing feature. Whosoever will may come and drink from His fountain of life.
At the same time, He prohibits anyone from coming any other way than through the cross of Jesus Christ. If there was another way, He would have spared Jesus the agony and excruciating form of death He endured.
That is the offense of the cross and the reason for resistance to the gospel. God appears to be exclusive by refusing to allow anyone to come to Him by their own righteousness. As the creator of all things, He alone has the right to determine how people are reconciled to Him.
I thank God for His ingenious plan of redemption that enables me, a sinner, to experience His peace and joy, and maintain your perfect justice.