December 5, Life in Him
December 5. GOD IS LIFE
“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. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” John 3:16-17
One of the most quoted verses from God’s Word expresses the gift of eternal life. But I have found that this may also be the most misunderstood.
We cannot limit the meaning of eternal life to simply the location of Heaven after one has died, nor to an unending progression of years. There is so much more about eternal life than these incomplete explanations.
The Bible reminds us that whoever believes in the Son has eternal life (John 3:36). Notice the present tense. Eternal lifedoes not simply focus on the future, but rather the current condition of one’s standing with God through faith in Jesus. Therefore, eternal life is something that begins at the moment of salvation (conversion). In John 17:3, eternal life is appraised in the prayer of Jesus: “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” In a clear summary, “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (I John 5:11-12)
Eternal life is inextricably connected to Jesus. A quick reference to the original language of the Bible may help. The Greek language uses two terms for eternal: aionios, meaning unending; zoe, meaning not only a biological existence, but also a full and genuine life. So, eternal life is both quality and quantity, or fullness of life that lasts forever. And, this only comes by a relationship with Jesus.
So, when we quote John 3:16, we are stating that God is life, and that life was manifested to you and me in His Son. If we believe in Jesus (by faith trusting Him alone for our salvation), we will have eternal life – lastingly fulfilled life that ultimately destines us for our Heavenly Home, in God’s presence forever.
God is life, and the giver of life. This is true biologically. But with greater significance, this is true spiritually. God is the giver of life, and life abundant; He has given us this life in His Son.
So today, do not live in fear of all that seems to threaten your well-being. Instead, trust the giver and sustainer of abundant and eternal life.
Look at the babe in the manger. Ponder Him. God sent Him so that you may have abundant and eternal life. You are indeed secure in Him.
This is LIFE! This is Christmas.
Blessings.