Some parts of the Bible are confusing, others seemingly incomprehensible. But in one matter—the way to eternal life—the Scriptures prove crystal clear.

This is the testimony: 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 write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.

Believe in the name of Jesus or reject the name of Jesus. Eternal life or eternal death. One surpassing our wildest dreams, the other touching our deepest nightmares. Either way, you can be confident in your choice.

John also reminds us to stay confident in prayer, asking God for our wants and needs. I can pray with the understanding that eternal life has already begun, and I exist now in phase one. I live like the eternal being I already am. God will either answer all my prayers, or soon transform me beyond all my needs.

The potential for a long, unbroken relationship stretches out before you and me, should we choose to accept it. If so, pray today with confidence in the Son, the giver of life eternal.

1 John 5 in Through the Bible in 2024

Photo by Ben Collins