[E] What must I do to have Eternal Life
According to the Bible, the key to having eternal life is found in several passages, but the most central theme is faith in Jesus Christ. Here are some important steps based on biblical teachings:
- Believe in Jesus Christ:
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Faith in Jesus as the Son of God and Savior is fundamental to receiving eternal life. - Repentance:
- Acts 3:19 encourages people to “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” Repentance involves turning away from sin and turning toward God.
- Confess Jesus as Lord:
- Romans 10:9 states, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Confession of faith in Jesus as Lord is another step to eternal life.
- Follow God’s commandments and live a righteous life:
- Matthew 19:17 says, “If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” While salvation is by grace through faith, living according to God’s will is a fruit of that faith.
- Be born again:
- John 3:3 says, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” This spiritual rebirth comes through the Holy Spirit.
- Grace of God:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that eternal life is a gift from God: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Eternal life cannot be earned by works but is granted through God’s grace.
In summary, to have eternal life according to the Bible, one must believe in Jesus Christ, repent from sin, confess Him as Lord, and live in obedience to His teachings, all while relying on God’s grace.