How does John 5:24 assure believers of eternal life through faith in Christ? Verse in Focus John 5:24: “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life.” Key Words Unpacked • “Truly, truly” – Jesus doubles the affirmation; the promise is certain. • “Hears My word” – not a casual listening but receptive, obedient hearing (cf. Romans 10:17). • “Believes Him who sent Me” – trusting the Father by trusting the Son (John 12:44). • “Has eternal life” – present-tense possession, not a future possibility. • “Will not come under judgment” – exemption from final condemnation (Romans 8:1). • “Crossed over” – decisive, completed transfer; no return trip (Colossians 1:13). What the Promise Means • Eternal life is granted the moment one believes; it isn’t earned later. • Judgment is already settled—believers are declared righteous. • The passage from spiritual death to life is final and irreversible. Foundation in Jesus’ Authority • The Son speaks with the same authority as the Father (John 5:19-23). • Because His word is infallible, the assurance stands firm (Matthew 24:35). Immediate and Lasting Implications 1. Security: salvation rests on Christ’s promise, not human effort (Ephesians 2:8-9). 2. Peace: fear of condemnation is removed (1 John 4:18). 3. Motivation: gratitude fuels obedience and witness (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). Supporting Scriptures • John 6:47 – “He who believes has eternal life.” • 1 John 5:11-13 – believers may “know” they have eternal life. • Romans 6:23 – gift of God is eternal life in Christ. • Titus 1:2 – God, who cannot lie, promised eternal life before time began. Living in the Assurance Today • Rest in the fact that eternal life is a present reality, not a pending reward. • Reflect daily on Christ’s completed work, letting assurance foster joyful obedience. • Share this certainty with others, inviting them to hear and believe the same life-giving word. |
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