Life: A Divine Gift

The Bible consistently portrays life as a sacred gift from God, imbued with purpose and meaning. 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 underscores the divine origin of life, emphasizing that human existence is a direct result of God's creative act. Life is not a mere biological phenomenon but a spiritual reality, reflecting the image of God (Genesis 1:27).

The sanctity of life is further affirmed in the commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13), which underscores the inherent value of human life. The Bible teaches that life is to be cherished and protected, as each person is fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). The value of life is also evident in the care and provision God extends to His creation, as seen in Matthew 6:26 : "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"

The Purpose of Life

Scripture reveals that life is not only valuable but purposeful. Ecclesiastes 12:13 states, "When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind." The purpose of life is to know God, to live in accordance with His will, and to glorify Him. Jesus Christ encapsulates this purpose in John 10:10 , saying, "I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness."

Death: A Transition, Not an End

While life is a divine gift, death is portrayed in the Bible as a consequence of sin. Romans 6:23 declares, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Death entered the world through sin (Romans 5:12), yet it is not the ultimate end for believers. Instead, it is a transition to eternal life with God.

The Bible offers hope beyond death through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In John 11:25-26 , Jesus proclaims, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies. And everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die." This assurance transforms the Christian perspective on death, viewing it as a passage to eternal communion with God.

The Hope of Eternal Life

The promise of eternal life is central to the Christian faith. In 1 John 5:11-12 , it is written, "And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life." Eternal life is not merely an extension of earthly existence but a qualitatively different life, characterized by the presence of God and the absence of sin and suffering (Revelation 21:4).

The Christian Response to Life and Death

In light of the value of life and the hope of eternal life, Christians are called to live with a sense of stewardship and responsibility. Ephesians 5:15-16 exhorts believers, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This call to wisdom and intentionality reflects the understanding that life is precious and fleeting.

Moreover, the hope of resurrection empowers Christians to face death without fear. As Paul writes in Philippians 1:21 , "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." This perspective encourages believers to live fully for Christ, knowing that death is not a loss but a gain, leading to eternal life with the Savior.