What must I do to inherit eternal life? This question, as recorded in the Bible, has been pondered by countless individuals throughout history. In the Gospel of John, chapter 3, verses 25-30, Jesus Christ addresses this very inquiry. This passage serves as a foundational text for understanding the path to eternal life and the necessary actions one must take to achieve it.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus encounters a man named Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. Nicodemus approaches Jesus at night, seeking guidance on how to enter the kingdom of God. Jesus responds by declaring that one must be born again to see the kingdom of God. This concept of rebirth is central to understanding the path to eternal life.
Jesus emphasizes the importance of faith in God’s Word as the means to inherit eternal life. In John 3:16, He states, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse highlights the necessity of faith in Jesus Christ as the foundation for eternal life. To inherit eternal life, one must believe in Jesus as the Son of God and His role in salvation.
Furthermore, Jesus teaches that eternal life is a gift from God, not something that can be earned through good works or religious rituals. In John 6:27, He declares, “Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.” This verse underscores the fact that eternal life is a divine gift, not a reward for human effort.
While eternal life is a gift, it requires a response from the individual. Jesus instructs believers to follow His teachings and to live a life of obedience. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands His disciples to “go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you.” This commandment implies that inheriting eternal life involves not only faith in Jesus but also a commitment to living according to His Word.
Additionally, Jesus teaches the importance of love and compassion in inheriting eternal life. In John 13:34-35, He states, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” This passage emphasizes that love for others is a reflection of one’s faith in Jesus and is essential for inheriting eternal life.
In conclusion, the question “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” finds its answer in the teachings of Jesus Christ. To inherit eternal life, one must believe in Jesus as the Son of God, accept the gift of salvation, follow His teachings, and live a life of love and obedience. This path is not an easy one, but it is the one that leads to true life and joy in the presence of God. As we seek to understand and live out this divine calling, let us remember the words of Jesus: “He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him” (John 3:36).
