The purpose of life, as understood within the Christian tradition, is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. From the creation narrative to the teachings of Jesus Christ, Scripture provides insight into the divine intention for human existence.

Creation and the Image of God

The Bible begins with the account of creation, where humanity is uniquely made in the image of God. Genesis 1:27 states, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This foundational truth establishes that humans are created to reflect God's character and attributes. Being made in God's image implies a purpose that transcends mere existence, calling individuals to live in a way that mirrors God's holiness, love, and righteousness.

Dominion and Stewardship

In Genesis 1:28 , God blesses humanity and commands them, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth." This mandate indicates a purpose of stewardship and dominion, where humans are entrusted with the care and management of God's creation. This responsibility reflects God's sovereign rule and invites humans to participate in His creative and sustaining work.

Relationship with God

Central to the purpose of life is the relationship between God and humanity. The Westminster Shorter Catechism, a historic Christian document, succinctly states, "Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever." This aligns with biblical teachings that emphasize knowing and loving God as the ultimate aim of life. In Deuteronomy 6:5 , the command is given, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." This love for God is foundational to understanding one's purpose, as it calls for a life oriented towards worship and devotion.

The Great Commandment and the Great Commission

Jesus Christ further clarifies the purpose of life through His teachings. In Matthew 22:37-39 , Jesus summarizes the law with the Great Commandment: "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" Here, the purpose of life is expressed in terms of love—both for God and for others. This dual commandment encapsulates the essence of a life lived in accordance with God's will.

Additionally, the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 provides a missional aspect to life's purpose: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This directive calls believers to share the gospel and expand God's kingdom, highlighting a purpose that involves active participation in God's redemptive plan for the world.

Eternal Perspective

The Bible also presents an eternal perspective on the purpose of life. In Ecclesiastes 12:13 , Solomon concludes, "Now that all has been heard, here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." This verse underscores the importance of living with an awareness of God's eternal nature and the ultimate accountability before Him.

The Apostle Paul echoes this eternal perspective in Philippians 3:13-14 , where he writes, "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus." Here, the purpose of life is seen as a journey towards a heavenly calling, with the ultimate goal of eternal fellowship with God.

Conclusion

The purpose of life, as revealed in the Bible, encompasses a relationship with God, stewardship of creation, love for others, participation in God's mission, and an eternal perspective. These elements together form a comprehensive understanding of why humans exist and how they are to live in accordance with divine intention.