The Gift of Eternal Life
Eternal life is both a present reality and a future promise. It means being restored to a right relationship with God—a relationship that begins now and continues forever in His presence. Jesus said, "This is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent" (John 17:3). Eternal life is not just endless existence; it is life filled with peace, joy, and purpose through fellowship with God.
Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers enter into a new kind of life. "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10). This life brings transformation as God renews the heart and mind. "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead … we too may live a new life" (Romans 6:4). Eternal life begins the moment we believe—it starts now and continues into eternity.
The promise also looks forward to the future. One day, God will completely remove sin, sorrow, and death: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain" (Revelation 21:4). Believers will dwell forever in the presence of the Lord, sharing in His victory and glory (1 Corinthians 15:52–54).
This gift is purely an act of grace. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8–9). Eternal life cannot be earned or achieved; it is freely given to all who trust in Jesus. As John 3:16 proclaims, "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."
Step 4 – Accept that God offers eternal life as a free gift to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
Eternal life is offered freely—but receiving it requires a personal response of faith. The final step explores how belief and confession open the door to this everlasting relationship with God.