The question of whether people with different religions can go to heaven is answered by distinguishing between God’s universal plan for salvation and the specific, limited call to a heavenly reward.

The call to heaven is not a universal offer made to all of humanity at this time; rather, it is a limited call and is by invitation only. In John 14:6, Jesus states, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through me.” The specific Father/child relationship required for the heavenly reward is reserved exclusively for those who follow Jesus as true disciples in this lifetime.

Heaven is for the called, chosen and faithful (Revelation 17:4). Because the reward involves receiving immortality (deathlessness), God only grants this to a very small number of people who have been thoroughly tested through a life of sacrifice.

While the call to heaven is limited, Jesus died for every single human being, including those of different religions or no religion at all. Because Jesus provided a ransom, a “corresponding price,” for Adam (1 Timothy 2:56), he legally “bought” the entire human race. This guarantees a resurrection for all people, regardless of their religious background or lack thereof.

The key is, salvation is in two parts, as evidenced by scripture after scripture such as:

1 Timothy 4:10: “…we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers.” (all men + believers)

2 John 2:1-2: “…we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and he himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world. (“our” sins – believers + those of the whole world)

1 John 2:2: “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” (believers + the whole world)

Romans 8:19-21: (Phillips translation) “The whole creation is on tiptoe to see the wonderful sight of the sons of God coming into their own. The world of creation cannot yet see reality…yet it has been given hope. And the hope is that in the end the whole of created life will be rescued from the tyranny of change and decay and have its share in the magnificent liberty which can only belong to the children of God.” (the creation – the whole world + the sons of God – the believers)

Salvation comes only through Jesus Christ, but the timing differs by group. For Jesus’ true followers, salvation must be accepted now, under challenging conditions, with the support of the providence of God, the support of Jesus and the guidance of the holy spirit. For the rest of humanity, salvation will be offered in the future—after resurrection, learning God’s plan, rehabilitation, and with full discernment—under fair conditions where Satan is bound and ultimately destroyed, and with the support of the completed church led by Christ.

God’s plan is fair, loving, and reasonable, as Jesus gave himself as a ransom for all, not just the “lucky” few (1 Timothy 2:6).

Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode 1414: “Did Jesus Die for Every Single Human Being?”
Tracing the clarity of biblical teaching regarding salvation for all
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

Episode #1231: “What if I’m Not Good Enough for Heaven?”
Uncovering the destiny of humanity’s billions who don’t go to heaven
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

For children, parents and Bible class teachers:
Animated video: Why did Jesus have to die for Adam’s sin?