Eternal

Eternal (by David Peterson at The Rock Of Jesus Church)

While in Jerusalem, Jesus was confronted for healing a paralytic on the Sabbath. Jesus equated Himself with God and that further infuriated the powers that be. In verse 5:24 of John’s gospel, Jesus says; “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.”

While trying to get the attention of all who would hear, Jesus is plainly stating the promise of eternal life comes to those who believe in Him. And, this belief is not merely a promise, but an assurance, or a declaration that inspires complete confidence.

Christian author, Lee Strobel, once wrote; “Believing the right things about Jesus isn't enough. You're not adopted as God's child until you confess and turn away from your wrongdoing and receive the freely offered gift of forgiveness and eternal life that Jesus purchased with His death on the cross. Until you do that, you'll always be on the outside looking in.” Strobel breaks down the words of Jesus pragmatically and with stunning clarity.

Prolific hymn writer, Elisha Hoffman, wrote the hymn “Where Will You Spend Eternity?” in 1887. The first 2 verses follow;

1. Where will you spend eternity?

This question comes to you and me!

Tell me, what shall your answer be?

Where will you spend eternity?

Eternity! eternity!

Where will you spend eternity?

2. Many are choosing Christ today,

Turning from all their sins away;

Heav’n, shall their happy portion be?

Where will you spend eternity?

Eternity! eternity!

Where will you spend eternity?

Is eternity with Christ in your future?

Let us pray: Gracious Jesus, your salvation offers us forgiveness of sins and eternal life. For all of that we are grateful but the greatest reward is merely being in your presence one fine day! Amen.