He absolutely is the only way to heaven, and those who never hear the gospel are indeed given a chance to make the right choice.
I truly feel sorry for people who choose to make fun or mock the most serious issue any human being will ever face, that being where to spend eternity.
MM (in TX)
James 2:23
And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was —> imputed unto <— him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. (KJV)
New American Standard uses “reckoned to him as righteousness”.
Old Testament times - Saved/justified by faith, (same as NT believers) not by works.
Their faith “translated” into righteousness and therefore salvation in Christ Jesus, thus covered by His blood, which is the only payment for sin.