What Is Eternal Life According to the Bible — In Biblical Context
Eternal life is not just endless existence but a present relationship with God through Jesus Christ that continues forever in His presence.
Eternal life is not just endless existence but a present relationship with God through Jesus Christ that continues forever in His presence.
"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)
The Biblical Context
Eternal life in Scripture is both quantitative (everlasting duration) and qualitative (a new kind of life). Jesus defined it: 'And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent' (John 17:3). Eternal life begins at the moment of faith (John 5:24: 'hath everlasting life... is passed from death unto life'), not at physical death. It is God's gift, not a human achievement (Romans 6:23). Believers are described as already possessing eternal life (1 John 5:13). This life involves knowing God intimately, experiencing His presence, being transformed into Christ's likeness, and ultimately living forever in the new creation. Eternal life is both a present reality (abundant life now, John 10:10) and a future promise (resurrected glory, 1 Corinthians 15:42-44).
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, John 17:3, sits inside John 17. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."
Supporting Passages
"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life."
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