How does John 6:47 affirm the assurance of eternal life through belief? Confidence in Jesus’ Words “Truly, truly, I tell you, he who believes has eternal life.” (John 6:47) Key Phrases in John 6:47 • “Truly, truly” – Jesus doubles the amen for emphasis, signaling absolute reliability. • “I tell you” – a personal guarantee from the Son of God. • “he who believes” – the single, clear condition: trusting in Jesus. • “has eternal life” – present-tense possession, not a future possibility. What Jesus Promises • Eternal life is a present reality the moment one believes. • The promise rests on Jesus’ authority, not human effort. • No additional works or rituals are added to the requirement. Why This Assures Us 1. The certainty of Jesus’ character – Titus 1:2: “God, who cannot lie.” 2. The sufficiency of faith – Ephesians 2:8-9: salvation “by grace … through faith … not by works.” 3. The permanence of the gift – John 10:28: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; no one will snatch them out of My hand.” 4. The present tense of possession – John 5:24: believers “has eternal life … has crossed over from death to life.” Supporting Passages • 1 John 5:11-13: “… God has given us eternal life … so that you may know that you have eternal life.” • Romans 8:38-39: nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” • Hebrews 7:25: Jesus “is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him.” Living Out This Assurance • Rest in the completed work of Christ rather than striving to earn favor. • Face trials with confidence, knowing eternal destiny is secure. • Share the simplicity of the gospel: belief in Jesus brings eternal life—now. |
    |