Salvation is only in Christ because all of God's mercy and grace are found in Him alone.
Paul emphasizes in his letters that salvation is exclusively in Christ. In Ephesians 1:4-5, it states that believers are chosen in Him before the foundation of the world. This means that all blessings, mercy, and grace are grouped within the person of Christ. If a person desires to enter heaven or receive forgiveness, it can only be through their identification with Christ. Paul’s testimony involves being notified that he was 'in Christ,' solidifying that true salvation comes from being united with Him, not based on personal merit or works. Therefore, the understanding is clear: salvation is not found in following Christ’s example but through recognizing Him as the very source of salvation.
Commentary