What does eternal life mean in the Bible?

In the biblical context, eternal life signifies more than mere endless existence; it represents a quality of life that comes through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. John 17:3 delineates this idea as knowing the true God and Jesus Christ, which means entering into a deep, personal, and transformative relationship with Him. This life is not acquired through human effort or decision but is a gracious gift from God, as reflected in Romans 6:23. It embodies the believer's new identity and assurance of salvation, rooted in the work of Christ and the covenant of grace.