Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Importance Confidence in eternal life refers to the assurance and trust that believers have in the promise of everlasting life through faith in Jesus Christ. This confidence is rooted in the teachings of Scripture and is a central tenet of Christian faith, providing hope and purpose to believers. Biblical Foundation The Bible provides numerous assurances of eternal life for those who believe in Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John, Jesus Himself declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life" (John 5:24). This passage underscores the immediate possession of eternal life for believers, emphasizing the transition from spiritual death to life. Another foundational verse is found in John 3:16, which states, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" . This verse highlights the love of God as the basis for the gift of eternal life, accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. Assurance through the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in providing believers with confidence in their eternal destiny. In Ephesians 1:13-14, Paul writes, "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory" . The Holy Spirit acts as a seal and a guarantee of the believer's inheritance, offering assurance of eternal life. The Role of Faith Faith is the means by which believers receive the promise of eternal life. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see" . This assurance is not based on human merit but on the finished work of Christ on the cross. Romans 10:9 affirms, "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" . This confession and belief are the foundation of the believer's confidence in eternal life. Overcoming Doubt While believers may experience doubt, Scripture encourages them to hold fast to their faith. In 1 John 5:13, the apostle John writes, "I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life" . This verse reassures believers of their eternal security, encouraging them to trust in the promises of God. Living in Light of Eternal Life Confidence in eternal life impacts the way believers live their earthly lives. Colossians 3:1-2 exhorts, "Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" . This heavenly focus encourages believers to live with purpose and hope, reflecting the eternal perspective granted through faith in Christ. Conclusion Confidence in eternal life is a profound assurance rooted in the promises of Scripture, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the believer's faith in Jesus Christ. This confidence not only provides hope for the future but also transforms the present, guiding believers to live in a manner worthy of their eternal calling. Subtopics Confidence: Betrayed: Abner, by Joab Confidence: Betrayed: Ahimelech, by David Confidence: Betrayed: Amasa, by Joab Confidence: Betrayed: Eglon, by Ehud Confidence: Betrayed: Joshua, by the Gibeonites Confidence: Betrayed: The Worshipers of Baal, by Jehu Select Readings: Confidence in God Related Terms |