Biblical Doctrine Center
Eternal Life
What Jesus and the apostles teach about eternal life, both a present reality and a future hope.
Overview
Historical and Literary Context
The Old Testament hints at resurrection hope (Daniel 12:2, Job 19:25-27), but the New Testament, especially John's Gospel, develops eternal life as a present possession of everyone who believes in Jesus, not merely a distant future reward.
And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
John 17:3 (KJV)
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 3:16 (KJV)
What Scripture Explicitly Says
Scripture explicitly states eternal life is given now to believers (1 John 5:11-13), defines it as knowing God and Jesus Christ (John 17:3), and promises its future fullness includes no more death, sorrow, or pain (Revelation 21:4).
Questions Christians Discuss
Christians discuss the precise details of the intermediate state (life immediately after death, before final resurrection) and the nature of the new heavens and new earth. Scripture speaks with certainty about believers being with Christ (Philippians 1:23) while leaving some particulars unspecified.
Gospel Connection
Eternal life is not an abstract reward but a relationship, knowing the true God through Jesus Christ, secured entirely by his death and resurrection and received as a free gift by faith (Romans 6:23).
Practical Application
Believers can hold present suffering loosely, knowing it is 'not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed' (Romans 8:18), and can live now in light of a hope that is certain, not wishful.
Cross References
Revelation 21:1-4 (KJV) - The new heaven and new earth. 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV) - Things prepared for those who love God. 2 Corinthians 5:1 (KJV) - A building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
Reflection Questions
- 1
How does defining eternal life as 'knowing God' in John 17:3 change how you think about it, beyond simply living forever?
- 2
How does the certain hope of eternal life change the way you carry present suffering or loss?
- 3
What do you most look forward to about Revelation 21's promise of no more death, sorrow, or pain?
Prayer
Father, thank you for the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, both now and forever.
Help me to know you more deeply today, and to hold present suffering loosely in light of the glory to come. Amen.
Continue Your Study
The Resurrection -- studies the bodily resurrection eternal life ultimately includes.
The Kingdom of God -- explores the full, unending reign of God eternal life is lived within.