What does it mean to have eternal life according to Scripture?

Eternal life is described in John 17:3 as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom He sent. This understanding transcends mere existence; it is about a profound relationship characterized by trust, love, and communion with God. Eternal life is not simply living forever; it is a qualitatively different existence that begins now through faith in Christ and continues in glory. The apostle John further elucidates in 1 John 5:11-13 that God has given us eternal life, and this life is found in His Son. Therefore, possessing eternal life means being united with Christ through faith, ensuring that sin, which separates us from God, is no longer counted against us due to the imputation of Christ’s righteousness. Thus, eternal life represents not just an everlasting state but an active, living relationship with the Creator.