Definition and Overview:
Eternal life, as presented in the Christian Scriptures, refers to the everlasting life that believers receive through faith in Jesus Christ. This concept is central to Christian theology and is understood as both a present possession and a future hope. Eternal life is characterized by an unending, intimate relationship with God, free from the corruption of sin and death.

Biblical Foundation:
The New Testament provides the primary foundation for the doctrine of eternal life through Jesus. In the Gospel of John, Jesus explicitly states, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25). This declaration underscores the belief that eternal life is granted through faith in Jesus Christ, who has power over death.

Nature of Eternal Life:
Eternal life is not merely an extension of temporal existence but a transformation into a new quality of life. Jesus describes this life as knowing God: "Now this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent" (John 17:3). This knowledge is relational and experiential, signifying a deep, personal communion with God.

Means of Attaining Eternal Life:
The New Testament emphasizes that eternal life is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul writes, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). This gift is not earned by human effort but is granted by God's grace through belief in the redemptive work of Jesus.

Role of Jesus Christ:
Jesus is central to the concept of eternal life. He is portrayed as the source and sustainer of this life. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" . This statement affirms that access to eternal life is exclusively through Jesus, who reconciles humanity to God.

Present and Future Dimensions:
Eternal life has both present and future dimensions. Believers experience eternal life now through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, who testifies to their status as children of God (Romans 8:16). This present reality is a foretaste of the fullness of eternal life that will be realized in the age to come, when believers will dwell with God in a renewed creation (Revelation 21:3-4).

Assurance of Eternal Life:
The New Testament provides assurance of eternal life to those who believe in Jesus. The Apostle John writes, "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" (1 John 5:13). This assurance is grounded in the promises of God and the finished work of Christ.

Implications for Believers:
The promise of eternal life has profound implications for the lives of believers. It offers hope and comfort in the face of suffering and death, motivating a life of holiness and service. The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to "set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:2), encouraging them to live in light of their eternal inheritance.

Conclusion:
While the entry does not include a formal conclusion, the doctrine of eternal life through Jesus remains a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering believers a transformative hope rooted in the person and work of Jesus Christ.