The concept of "true life" in the Bible is deeply rooted in the understanding of life as God intended it, both in its physical and spiritual dimensions. This entry explores the biblical perspective on true life, drawing from various scriptures to illuminate its nature.

Creation and the Breath of Life

The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God is depicted as the source of all life. In Genesis 2:7 , it is written, "Then the LORD God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being." This passage highlights that true life originates from God’s breath, signifying a divine impartation that distinguishes human life from all other forms of creation.

Life in Relationship with God

True life, according to the Scriptures, is intrinsically linked to a relationship with God. In Deuteronomy 30:19-20 , Moses exhorts the Israelites, "I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. So choose life, so that you and your descendants may live, and that you may love the LORD your God, obey Him, and hold fast to Him. For He is your life, and He will prolong your days in the land that the LORD swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." Here, life is equated with loving and obeying God, suggesting that true life is found in covenantal faithfulness.

Eternal Life through Christ

The New Testament further develops the concept of true life through the person and work of Jesus Christ. In John 10:10 , Jesus declares, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness." This statement underscores that true life is not merely biological existence but a life of abundance found in Christ. Moreover, in John 14:6 , Jesus states, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the embodiment of true life, emphasizing that access to the Father and eternal life is through Him alone.

The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

The role of the Holy Spirit is crucial in understanding true life. In Romans 8:11 , Paul writes, "And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who dwells within you." The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is presented as the source of life, empowering believers to live in accordance with God’s will and assuring them of resurrection life.

The Transformative Power of True Life

True life is transformative, affecting both the inner being and outward conduct. In Galatians 2:20 , Paul proclaims, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." This transformation is characterized by a life of faith, where the believer’s identity and actions are shaped by Christ’s presence within.

The Hope of Resurrection

The hope of resurrection is a central aspect of true life. In 1 Corinthians 15:22 , Paul asserts, "For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." The resurrection of Jesus is the guarantee of true life beyond physical death, offering believers the assurance of eternal life with God.

Living Out True Life

The practical outworking of true life is seen in the call to live righteously and love others. In 1 John 3:14 , it is written, "We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. The one who does not love remains in death." Love is the evidence of true life, reflecting the character of God and the transformative power of the gospel.

In summary, the nature of true life in the Bible is a multifaceted concept that encompasses creation, relationship with God, the redemptive work of Christ, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, transformation, resurrection hope, and righteous living. True life is ultimately found in communion with God, made possible through Jesus Christ, and is characterized by a life of faith, love, and eternal hope.