Religion is a complex topic, and the question of eternal life is an ancient debate. Over time, many beliefs and philosophies have arisen, but the Bible remains one of the most prominent sources for knowledge about eternity. But what does the Bible actually say about eternal life?
The Bible is full of examples of everlasting life, such as the story of Noah in the Old Testament and the parable of the Prodigal Son in the New Testament. In the book of Genesis, chapter 9, it says that God promised Noah that his descendants would be blessed with eternal life. In the New Testament, Jesus explains that the Prodigal Son will inherit eternal life by returning to the father.
According to the Bible, eternal life is the reward for those who accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior. In John 3:16, it 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 verse suggests that belief in Jesus Christ is essential in order to attain eternal life.
In addition, the Bible explains that those who follow God’s commandments and lead a Christ-centered life will be welcomed into eternal life with God. In the book of Matthew, Jesus says: “And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God” (Matt 10:32). This means that if we choose to follow Christ and serve Him faithfully, then we will be rewarded with eternal life.
One important theme that the Bible emphasizes is that eternal life is not something we can attain on our own. Rather, it is a gift from God that must be received, and those who choose to accept it are those who will truly experience it. In Romans, chapter six, Paul says: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).
Living a Life That Reflects Eternity
The Bible also emphasizes that in order to be granted eternal life, our lives here on earth must reflect the promise of eternity. In 1 John 2:17, the apostle John states: “And the world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever”. This implies that the way we live our lives matters and shows our commitment to God and an eternal life with Him.
Moreover, the Bible suggests that one should not focus too much on earthly pleasure and material wealth, but instead live a life of faith and love. In 1 Timothy 6:17-18, it says: “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy”. This indicates that those who follow God and put their trust in Him will be blessed with eternal life.
It is also important to note that the Bible states that eternal life will be free from sin, sorrow and suffering. In the book of Revelation, it says: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev 21:4). This means that all our troubles and sorrows will be replaced with everlasting joy and peace when we enter into eternal life.
How to Prepare for Eternal Life
Finally, the Bible teaches us that the best way to prepare for eternal life is to adopt a humble attitude towards God and those around us. Jesus states in Mark 10:45 that “even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve”. This implies that in order to receive eternal life, we must put others’ needs before our own and serve God and our neighbours with humility and love.
In addition, the Bible instructs us to repent our sins, turn away from them and live in accordance with God’s will. In 1 John1:9, it states: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness”. This means that we must recognize our sins, admit our guilt and strive to live in accordance with God’s commands in order to obtain eternal life.
The Benefits of Living in Eternity
The Bible encourages us to have faith that God will grant us everlasting life when we follow His commands. In 1 Corinthians 2:9, it states: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him”. This indicates that God has a special plan for those who choose to serve Him faithfully and that faith in Him leads to eternal life.
The Bible also teaches that those who attain eternal life will be granted the perfect peace, abundant joy, profound knowledge and unending love of God. In the book of Isaiah, it says: “And they shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat the fruit of them… They shall not labour in vain or bear children for calamity; for they shall be the offspring of the blessed of the Lord, and their descendants with them” (Is 65:21-22). This verse is a powerful reminder that although we may experience setbacks and difficulties in our lives, those who put their trust in God will be granted an eternity of joy, peace and love.
The Future of the Faithful
The Bible also speaks of those who will be saved from the Judgment Day and enter into everlasting life with God. In Mark 13: 24-26, Jesus says: “But in those days, following that distress, ‘the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken’. At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens”. This verse implies that those who have remained faithful to God during their lives will be saved from judgment and will be granted everlasting life with Him.
Longing for Eternal Life
The Bible teaches us that longing for eternity is a part of living a faithful life, and that we should strive to use our time here on earth wisely. In Psalms 90:12, it says: “So teach us to number our days that we may present to You a heart of wisdom”. This verse reminds us that our lives on earth are finite, and that we should use the time we have to prepare for the life eternal.
Moreover, the Bible encourages us to look forward to the day when we will enter into the glorious life of eternity. In Titus 2:13, it states “..looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ”. This means that as believers, we should strive to remain faithful to God and to be ready for His arrival, when He will grant us eternal life.
Living with an Eternal Perspective
In conclusion, the Bible teaches us that eternal life is not just a reward gained after death, but something that can be experienced here on earth. Living a life of faith in accordance with God’s commands and striving to remain humble and loving towards others is the best way to prepare for the life eternal. The Bible encourages us to look forward to the day when we will enter into the glorious life of eternity with God, and to use our time here on earth wisely as we make our way towards it.
