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What is Eternal Life?


 For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. John 17:2-3, TNIV.

One of the most famous passages in the Bible tells us that eternal life is available to all who believe (John 3:16). So what is eternal life?

I grew up thinking of this as going to heaven. Eternal life was life in heaven with God. It was something we received in the future. Although there is truth in this, my understanding fell way short of what eternal life actually is.

In this passage, eternal life is defined as knowing “the only true God, and Jesus Christ.” That being said, eternal life begins when one knows God. Eternal life is for today! When we know God, we start living eternally. We are connected to the eternal one. Our desires and goals all take on an eternal perspective.

It must be said here that we should not confuse this knowing with Gnosticism, intellect assent (Gary M. Burge, John, NIV Application Commentary). Knowing here is about a relationship, intimacy, loving and obeying God. 

When we walk in God’s love, obeying Him, we start living an eternal life. Eternity starts now! Eternal life is living life to the fullest (John 10:10), every now from now until forever.

One last thought, an eternal perspective desires everyone to receive eternal life. Who do you know needs eternal life?

Keeping living eternally!

God Speed.
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