Throughout his teachings, Jesus spoke of eternal life, often referring to it as a promise to those who follow him. But what exactly did he teach about eternal life? Let’s explore his teachings on this topic and how it relates to our lives today.
The Promise of Eternal Life
Jesus often spoke of the promise of eternal life for those who believe in him. In John 3:16, he famously states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This promise is available to all who believe in Jesus, regardless of their background or past mistakes.
What is Eternal Life?
Eternal life is not just about living forever. It’s a quality of life that comes from having a relationship with God.
In John 17:3, Jesus defines eternal life as knowing God and himself whom God has sent. This knowledge involves an intimate connection with God that transforms our lives and brings us into alignment with his will.
How Do We Receive Eternal Life?
According to Jesus’ teachings, we receive eternal life by believing in him as the Son of God and putting our trust in him alone for salvation. This means acknowledging our sinfulness and need for forgiveness, confessing our sins to God, and accepting the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Living a Life Worthy of Eternal Life
While eternal life is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ, it doesn’t mean we can live however we want once we receive it. In fact, Jesus taught that those who truly believe in him will also strive to live according to his commands (John 14:15). This means living a life characterized by love for others (John 13:34-35), obedience to God (John 15:14), and bearing fruit that reflects our faith (John 15:16).
The Importance of Perseverance
Jesus warned that following him would not always be easy (John 16:33). There would be trials and persecution, but he also promised to be with us and give us the strength to endure (John 15:18-21). Perseverance in our faith is essential for receiving the ultimate reward of eternal life (Matthew 10:22).
Conclusion
In summary, Jesus taught that eternal life is a promise available to all who believe in him as the Son of God. It’s a quality of life that comes from knowing God and having a relationship with him.
We receive eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, but this faith should also lead to a transformed life characterized by love, obedience, and perseverance. As we strive to live according to his teachings, we can have confidence in the promise of eternal life that he offers.