9.2 The Words of Eternal Life
The Words of Eternal Life: A Promise That Changes Everything

Read John 6:61–68. What did Peter’s response mean after Jesus asked his disciples if they wanted to leave him?

Peter’s response to Jesus’ question about whether the disciples wanted to abandon him (John 6:68) is a powerful confession of faith: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” This statement encompasses several central aspects of faith and Jesus’ message:

1. Jesus’ Exclusive Offer

Peter recognizes that no one else has the words of eternal life except Jesus. Jesus is the only source of life that transcends the earthly. This realization reflects the central theme of the Gospel of John: in Jesus, we find redemption, hope, and the promise of eternal life. The disciples know that they cannot find truth, hope, and fulfillment anywhere else.

Application: Amidst challenges and temptations, we must hold firmly that there is no alternative to Jesus when it comes to true life and redemption.

2. Eternal Life—A Tangible Reality

The term “eternal life” in the Gospel of John describes not only a future life after death but also a life-changing reality in the here and now. It is a life in communion with God that begins through faith in Jesus and is fully realized in the resurrection. Peter testifies that Jesus’ words reveal this truth—words that penetrate deeply and offer new hope.

Application: Jesus’ words provide us with guidance, comfort, and a foundation for our daily lives. They help us find the meaning and purpose of our lives within God’s plan.

3. The Challenge of Faith

Jesus’ words in John 6, especially about “eating his flesh” and “drinking his blood,” were difficult for many listeners to accept. Yet, Peter remains steadfast in his faith despite the challenges. His response shows that faith does not require us to understand everything fully but to trust that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

Application: In our daily faith journey, we often face questions and challenges that we cannot immediately comprehend. Peter’s confession reminds us to hold on to Jesus, even when everything is not clear, because he is the source of life.

4. The Connection to the Bread of Life

Jesus’ statement that he is the Bread of Life (John 6:35) indicates that our spiritual life depends on him just as our physical life depends on bread. By referring to Jesus’ words, Peter acknowledges this life-giving connection: Jesus is the “bread” that satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger.

Application: We should nourish ourselves daily with Jesus’ words by reading the Bible, reflecting on his teachings, and putting them into practice. This spiritual nourishment gives us the strength to face life’s challenges and grow in faith.

Conclusion

Peter’s response in John 6:68 is a profound confession that encapsulates the central message of the Gospel: Jesus alone has the words of eternal life. His message is not only a promise for the future but a living reality that transforms our lives now. The challenge lies in how we hold on to Jesus, even when his words are difficult or unclear. By staying with him, we find life, hope, and the fulfillment of our deepest desires.

How Do We Receive Eternal Life? (John 3:15–16; 5:24; 6:40,47; 8:31; 12:46; 20:31)

Eternal life is granted to us solely through faith, as emphasized in key verses from the Gospel of John (John 3:15–16; 5:24; 6:40,47). It is not something we can earn but a gift offered to us through Jesus Christ. This faith, however, has concrete aspects and leads to an active relationship with Jesus.

1. Faith as the Foundation of Eternal Life (John 3:15–16; 6:47)

In John 3:16, it says: “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.” Faith in Jesus is the key to redemption and eternal life. It is not just about intellectually affirming but deeply trusting that Jesus, through his death and resurrection, has opened the way to life.

Application: We receive eternal life by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior and trusting that his sacrifice for our sins is sufficient. This faith is a personal confession and living trust.

2. Hearing and Accepting (John 5:24; 12:46)

Jesus says in John 5:24: “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” Hearing here means not just listening to words but taking them to heart and responding to them. Those who accept Jesus’ words will transition from death to life.

Application: We receive eternal life by opening ourselves to God’s word daily, listening, and aligning our lives accordingly. Faith requires a conscious decision to follow Jesus’ words and place our trust in him.

3. Remaining in the Truth (John 8:31)

In John 8:31, Jesus says: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.” Faith in Jesus leads us to live in his truth and be shaped by it. This is not a one-time act but a daily decision to follow Jesus.

Application: Eternal life begins with a first step of faith, but it grows and unfolds as we remain in fellowship with Jesus and faithfully follow him.

4. Repentance and Submission

Faith is not just about intellectually affirming but consciously submitting to Jesus. This means repenting, confessing our sins, and trusting that his blood cleanses us. This dedication opens our hearts to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, leading us to a new life.

Application: Through repentance and the conscious decision to surrender our lives to Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life and allow him to transform us.

5. Eternal Life Begins Now (John 20:31)

In John 20:31, John explains that the things he has written are true “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” Eternal life is not just a future hope but a present reality experienced through a relationship with Jesus.

Application: Eternal life begins the moment we invite Jesus into our lives. It gives us peace, joy, and hope that shape our lives in the here and now.

Conclusion: Accepting Eternal Life as a Gift

Eternal life comes solely through faith in Jesus Christ, who has given us the words of life. This faith calls us to respond actively: accept him as Lord and Savior, repent, and remain in his truth. The assurance of eternal life gives us meaning, joy, and hope today and points us toward eternal fellowship with God.

How Does the Promise of Eternal Life Affect How We View Our Earthly Life? How Should It Affect Our Perspective?

The promise of eternal life fundamentally changes how we view and shape our earthly lives. It gives our existence a new perspective that encompasses both the present and the future. Here are some central impacts this promise should have:

1. Meaning and Hope in Difficult Times

• How It Shapes Us: The assurance of eternal life gives us hope even in the darkest moments. We know that earthly life is not the end and that God has prepared an eternal, glorious life for us. This perspective helps us view suffering, loss, and trials in the light of eternity (2 Corinthians 4:17–18).

• Our Perspective: Instead of being overwhelmed by life’s challenges, we can remember that they are temporary and fit into God’s eternal plan.

2. Setting Priorities

• How It Shapes Us: The promise of eternal life shifts our focus from transient things to lasting values. We recognize that material possessions, success, and fame are ultimately fleeting, while our faith, character, and relationship with God endure.

• Our Perspective: We should invest our time, resources, and energy in what has eternal value—love, mercy, justice, and the advancement of God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:19–21).

3. Freedom from Fear

• How It Shapes Us: The assurance of eternal life removes our fear of death and uncertainty. Knowing that our lives are in God’s hands allows us to live with confidence and peace.

• Our Perspective: Instead of living a life full of worries and fears, we can live courageously, confidently, and freely, knowing that God promises us eternal life (John 14:1–3).

4. A Life of Responsibility

• How It Shapes Us: The promise of eternal life is not only a gift but also a call to consciously and responsibly live our earthly lives. We are God’s stewards—of our time, talents, and resources—and should live in a way that bears witness to Him.

• Our Perspective: Our decisions, how we treat others, and our commitment to justice and truth should reflect that we are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20).

5. Motivation for Evangelism and Service

• How It Shapes Us: Recognizing the glory of eternal life motivates us to share this hope with others. We want others to experience the promise of eternity with God.

• Our Perspective: Our mission on earth becomes clearer: we are ambassadors of God, carrying His love and light into the world (2 Corinthians 5:20).

6. A Life Full of Gratitude and Joy

• How It Shapes Us: The promise of eternal life reminds us of the vastness of God’s love and grace. This fills us with gratitude and joy, even in difficult circumstances.

• Our Perspective: Instead of focusing on what is lacking, we can rejoice in what God has given us through Jesus Christ—a life in abundance and the hope of eternity (John 10:10).

Conclusion: Living Life in the Light of Eternity

The promise of eternal life should fundamentally transform how we view earthly life. It provides us with hope, priorities, freedom, and responsibility. We recognize that our lives are a gift and a preparation for eternity. This makes our daily lives more meaningful and encourages us to live with gratitude, dedication, and love—knowing that we are created for a greater reality.

Jesus’ words that grant eternal life are not only a promise for the future but have direct implications for our lives today. They shape our daily attitude, our decisions, and our trust in God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-source-of-life-9-2-the-words-of-eternal-life-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 25, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 1

¹ Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

² (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)

³ Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;

⁴ And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

⁵ By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

⁶ Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:

⁷ To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

⁸ First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

⁹ For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

¹⁰ Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.

¹¹ For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;

¹² That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.

¹³ Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

¹⁴ I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.

¹⁵ So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

¹⁶ For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

¹⁷ For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

¹⁸ For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

¹⁹ Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

²⁰ For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

²¹ Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

²² Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

²³ And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

²⁴ Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

²⁵ Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

²⁶ For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

²⁷ And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

²⁸ And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

²⁹ Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,

³⁰ Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

³¹ Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

³² Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction

Romans Chapter 1 marks the beginning of one of the most important theological works in the New Testament, authored by the Apostle Paul. This section serves as an introduction to the message of the Gospel, which describes both the redemption through Jesus Christ and the challenges of human godlessness and sin. Paul addresses the church in Rome directly, a community of believers he has not yet personally visited, and lays the foundation for the central theme of the letter: the righteousness of God revealed through faith.

Commentary

Paul’s Self-Introduction and the Nature of the Gospel (Verses 1–7)
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ and an apostle whose mission is to proclaim the Gospel of God. He emphasizes that this message is not a new invention but was foretold by the prophets in the Holy Scriptures (Verse 2). The Gospel centers on Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who is descended from David in his humanity but was revealed as Lord in divine power through the resurrection (Verses 3–4). This introduction highlights the divine authority and the universal significance of the Gospel.

Paul’s Gratitude and Desire to Visit Rome (Verses 8–15)
Paul expresses his gratitude for the faith of the Romans, which is widely known (Verse 8). He demonstrates his pastoral zeal by expressing his deep desire to visit the believers in Rome to strengthen them spiritually and to encourage one another in faith (Verses 11–12). Paul acknowledges his obligation to bring the Gospel to all people, both Jews and Gentiles, and announces his willingness to preach in Rome as well (Verse 15).

The Gospel as the Power of God (Verses 16–17)
Here, Paul presents the heart of the Letter to the Romans: the Gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew and also to the Gentile (Verse 16). The righteousness of God is revealed through faith, which Paul underscores with the quote from Habakkuk 2:4: “The righteous shall live by faith.” This statement is revolutionary as it ties salvation not to works or the law but solely to faith.

The Godlessness of the Gentiles and Its Consequences (Verses 18–32)
Paul shifts to a serious accusation against the godless humanity. He explains that God’s wrath is revealed against the sins of people who suppress the truth by their wickedness (Verse 18). Although they could recognize God’s invisible qualities through His creation, they did not honor Him but instead worshiped created things rather than the Creator (Verses 19–23). As a consequence, God allowed them to follow their sinful desires, leading to moral and spiritual corruption (Verses 24–32). Paul details the effects of this rebellion, which manifest in a life full of injustice, immorality, and self-destruction.

Summary

Romans Chapter 1 lays the groundwork for Paul’s theology by presenting the two sides of the Gospel message: the righteousness that comes through faith and the sinfulness that provokes God’s wrath. Paul presents himself as a servant of Christ who proclaims the Gospel with the aim of leading all people to obedience through faith. He demonstrates the universal need for redemption by outlining the godlessness and moral decadence of humanity. Simultaneously, he points to the transformative power of the Gospel, which brings salvation to believers and the revelation of God’s righteousness. This chapter serves as the starting point for a deeper exploration of redemption and the new life that God offers in Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/25-11-2024-romans-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/