Understanding Eternal Life (John 17:3)
In John 17:3, Jesus offers a profound definition of eternal life: “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” The essence of eternity is relationship. It’s not just an unending existence but knowing God personally and intimately. This point focuses on the concept of eternal life as an experiential knowledge of God and His Son, emphasizing a living, breathing relationship with the divine.
Ascension and Connection (John 20:17)
John 20:17 recounts a pivotal moment post-resurrection where Jesus tells Mary Magdalene, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” This ascension signifies a bridge between humanity and the divine, validating the intimate connection that believers have through Christ. By ascending, Jesus tears down the barriers, making his God our God, his Father our Father.
The End and the Beginning (1 Corinthians 15:24)
In 1 Corinthians 15:24, Paul speaks of the culmination of history: “Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power.” Eternal life includes the triumphant completion of God’s plan. This point reflects the victorious handover, illustrating that our eternal life will witness the fulfillment of God’s sovereignty.
The Kingdom Handed Over (1 Corinthians 15:24)
Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:24 also remind us that the eternal life Jesus secured is connected to the ultimate establishment of God’s kingdom. After Jesus destroys every rule and authority, He will hand over the Kingdom to the one true God, the Father. This underscores the eternal life we possess as part of God’s grand narrative, promising a future where God reigns supreme.
Our Response (John 17:3)
As John 17:3 exhorts us, knowing the one true God, and His only begottenson, is synonymous with eternal life. This knowledge isn’t intellectual alone but relational, reasonable and clear. Our response should be one of trust, commitment, obedience and daily communion with God. Through prayer, scripture, and community, we live out the eternal life given to us.
A Call to repentance
All of us are sinners, and we need forgiveness. The Father sent his son Jesus to give us eternal life and healing. If you are not born again, contact us by email: bornagain@thisweekinhuman.com