Jesus defines eternal life in a way that might surprise some: “And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.” Here, Jesus links eternal life not to a mere continuation of existence but to a personal, experiential knowledge of God through Christ. This statement reforms how Christians think about eternal life and emphasizes the importance of a deep, personal relationship with God. The belief is that living an endless life is not about experiencing death, but rather living a soulful life following god’s teaching.
The bible’s concept of knowing God goes beyond logical acknowledgment. It involves a personal, soulful relationship. In the Bible, to “know” often implies an intimate understanding or a deep personal experience. Thus, when Jesus talks about knowing God, He is speaking about something deeply personal that only the believers can feel.
This relationship with God is not always the same; it’s dynamic and grows over time. As believers engage more deeply with God’s word and spend time in His presence through prayer, they understand more of His character and His ways. This deepening knowledge brings a greater sense of peace and purpose, which is an example of eternal life.
Jesus plays a crucial role in this knowledge of God. He is the mediator between God and humanity, the one through whom we can approach the Father with confidence. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has provided a way for sinners to believe in a holy God. Knowing Jesus is therefore essential for knowing God; there is no access to the Father except through Him.
This point is highlighted in the invitation Jesus extends in Matthew 11:28, where He says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Here, Jesus is not only offering release from physical or emotional burdens but is inviting us into a calming relationship with Him, a relationship that provides peace and rest for the soul. This rest is a key aspect of endless life, offering a reservation from the trials of the world and a hint of the eternal peace to come.
In today’s world, where distractions are many and life often feels hurried and artificial, the promise of eternal life through knowing God offers an important contrast. It invites individuals to slow down, prioritize their relationship with God, and find in Him the peace and purpose that the world cannot provide. This understanding of eternal life challenges believers to live not just for the moment but with an eternal perspective, shaping how they interact with others and make decisions.
In Knowing our Savior, the themes of eternal life and the knowledge of God are elaborated on with great understanding. James Lewis dives into how the biblical understanding of knowing God and Jesus changes our concept of eternal life from a distant, abstract future to a present, living reality. Through engaging explanations and personal stories, he helps readers hold the practical implications of this knowledge for their daily lives.
For anyone seeking to understand the holy concept of eternal life more deeply, Knowing Our Savior provides an inspiring perspective. Knowing Our Savior offers practical guidance on how to live out this eternal life here and now, making it an essential resource for those looking to deepen their relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
