Without mentioning any names, some famous people who claim to be Christians have said they believe Jesus died for their sins but do not believe that Jesus is the only way to Heaven. Are these people saved?
Setting aside the fact that many who claim to be Christians are not born again, if these people believe in their heart that Jesus is their Lord, who died for their sins and rose again, they are saved. (Romans 10:9) Their comments about Jesus not being the only way shows that they have an inclusive view of salvation (many roads) instead of an exclusive one (one road). This view is held by many liberal theologians.
Jesus said that He is the only way to the Father, meaning His death is the only cure for sin (John 14:6). Even though these folks wrongly believe there are other ways, they have apparently chosen the one right one. However, if they hold themselves out to be teachers they can expect to receive a stricter judgment for their erroneous views (James 3:1).
On the night He was arrested Jesus prayed, “Father if it is possible may this cup be taken from me. Yet, not as I will, but as you will” (Matt. 26:39). In effect, He was saying, “If there is any other way for these people to be saved, please let me not have to die.” Some call this the unanswered prayer, but the Father’s silence confirmed that there is no other way.
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6)