Definition and Overview:
The concept of eternal presence with the Lord refers to the Christian belief in the everlasting communion and fellowship with God that believers will experience after physical death or at the return of Jesus Christ. This doctrine is rooted in the promises of Scripture, which assure believers of an eternal life in the presence of God, free from sin, suffering, and separation.

Biblical Foundations:

1. Promise of Eternal Life:
The Bible consistently affirms the promise of eternal life for those who believe in Jesus Christ. In John 3:16 , it is written, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse underscores the assurance of eternal life as a gift from God through faith in Jesus.

2. Presence with the Lord:
The Apostle Paul speaks of the believer's desire to be with the Lord in 2 Corinthians 5:8 : "We are confident, then, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." This passage highlights the Christian hope of being in the immediate presence of God after death.

3. Heavenly Dwelling:
Jesus Himself promised His followers a place in His Father's house. In John 14:2-3 , He states, "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am."

4. Eternal Inheritance:
The Apostle Peter describes the eternal inheritance awaiting believers in 1 Peter 1:4 : "and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you." This inheritance is characterized by its eternal nature and its preservation by God.

5. New Heaven and New Earth:
Revelation 21:3-4 provides a vision of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise: "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.'"

Theological Implications:

1. Assurance and Hope:
The doctrine of eternal presence with the Lord offers profound assurance and hope to believers. It affirms that death is not the end but a transition to a more glorious existence with God. This hope is a source of comfort in times of suffering and loss.

2. Motivation for Holy Living:
The anticipation of eternal life with God motivates believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. In 1 John 3:2-3 , it is written, "Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."

3. Communion with God:
Eternal presence with the Lord emphasizes the ultimate goal of salvation: restored and unbroken communion with God. This relationship, begun in this life through faith, will be perfected in eternity.

Conclusion:
The belief in eternal presence with the Lord is a central tenet of the Christian faith, offering believers the promise of everlasting life in the presence of God. This hope shapes the Christian life, providing comfort, motivation, and a vision of the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.