Yes, that is an accurate statement of our two beliefs.
Which is why I asked originally if we were saved because of our knowledge of Christ, or because of the actions of Christ.
Without Jesus you cannot be saved because if your scenario were correct for the Aborigine then why not the same for everyone, then why did Jesus come and die why didn't Father let that cup pass from him if there were another way to be saved?.that is why I say that the Holy Spirit would cause events to happen that would lead a person a Aborigine in this case to a saving knowledge of Jesus.
Well, I think if, as we said, someone was "prompted by God to believe" and "open to the leading of the Holy Spirit" that this person has only been able to do this because of Jesus and His work on the Cross. Whether he knows this or not.
Jesus' sacrifice made it possible for men to be saved. We all agree on that. If Jesus didn't die, the Aborigine or the American could not be saved. It's the necessary thing.
The question is how this salvation comes about. Is it because we understand something, or is it because God selects us and moves us?
Another thing I think you are missing is that with knowledge of Christ we are in a much more favorable position than the bushman is. No one is suggesting that all people in all places are automatically saved and that Jesus was unnecessary.
The question is, can God save someone who is ignorant of Jesus? I don't see why He can not. The salvation is made possible through Jesus and through the gift of grace His Sacrifice made possible. And through the Holy Spirit Jesus sent.
Would I rather be a Christian living with access to the teachings of Jesus and the Bible and the sacraments?
You bet.
Would it bother me if God, for His own purposes, place the Holy Spirit in a hopelessly ignorant Aborigine and guides that soul to salvation?
Not at all. It's still Jesus doing the work. Just like Jesus saves an infant who doesn't know any better to call out His name.
SD