What does "eternal life" mean in the context of John 17:2? Setting the Scene John 17 records Jesus’ prayer shortly before the cross. In verse 2 He speaks to the Father about “eternal life,” revealing what it is and how it is granted. Key Verse John 17:2: “For You granted Him authority over all humanity, so that He may give eternal life to all those You have given Him.” John 17:3 immediately clarifies: “Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” Initial Observations • Eternal life is a gift Jesus “gives.” • It rests on the Father’s sovereign grant of authority to the Son. • It is specifically for those the Father “has given” to the Son. • The definition centers on knowing God and Christ—not mere head knowledge, but intimate relationship. What “Eternal Life” Means in This Context • Unending duration—literal, never-ending life (John 3:16; John 10:28). • A share in God’s own life—quality as well as quantity (2 Peter 1:4). • Personal relationship—“know” (Greek ginōskō) speaks of experiential communion (John 17:3). • Present possession—believers “have eternal life” now (John 5:24; 1 John 5:11-13). • Future fullness—resurrection of the body and everlasting fellowship in the new heaven and earth (John 6:40; Revelation 21:3-4). • Secured by Christ’s authority—He alone can impart it because the Father has placed “all authority” in His hands (Matthew 28:18). • Free gift of grace—received by faith, not earned (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-9). How Eternal Life Becomes Ours 1. The Father grants people to the Son (John 6:37). 2. The Son gives them life through His cross and resurrection (John 11:25-26). 3. The individual responds in faith (John 3:16; John 20:31). A Life that Starts Now and Lasts Forever • Indwelling Spirit—God’s life in us today (John 14:16-17). • Ongoing transformation—new desires, new power over sin (Romans 6:4). • Confident hope—assurance that death is a doorway, not an end (Philippians 1:21-23). Living in the Reality of Eternal Life • Cultivate daily fellowship through the Word and prayer—“know” Him deeper (John 15:4-7). • Walk in holiness—eternal life is incompatible with habitual sin (1 John 3:9). • Share the message—Jesus’ authority extends “over all humanity,” calling us to proclaim the gift to others (Matthew 28:19-20). |
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