Is this a sticking point for you, wai-ming? If so, I can prove Scripturally that none were excluded, even those born befor Christ. Would that satisfy you?
BTW: Are you Chinese? If so, let me recommend a wonderful book that I just finished. It's called "Safely Home" by Randy Alcorn. It deals entirely with the church in China, and there's even some stuff to speak directly to your question. Randy is so much better than I at this.
Shalom.
I'd be very interested in the scriptural proof. Seems contradictory that God would say "this is the only way" then make exceptions for people depending on extenuating circumstances. Then again, if God is just, He must be fair to all people, and cannot hold those who never heard His word accountable for something they didn't know.
This is a major sticking point for many Chinese, who revere their ancestors and want the best for them in the afterlife--who wouldn't? So far, I have not found a satisfactory answer from mainstream Christianity.
Let me recommend a wonderful book that I just finished. It's called "Safely Home" by Randy Alcorn. It deals entirely with the church in China, and there's even some stuff to speak directly to your question.
Sounds like a fascinating book. Thanks for the reference. I'll check my local bookstore.