The concept of seeking eternal purpose is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, emphasizing the pursuit of God's will and the fulfillment of His divine plan for humanity. This pursuit is not merely a temporal endeavor but one that transcends earthly existence, aligning with the eternal nature of God Himself.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently encourages believers to seek God's purpose, which is eternal and unchanging. In Ecclesiastes 3:11, it is written, "He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men, yet they cannot fathom the work God has done from beginning to end." This verse highlights the innate desire within humans to understand and pursue the eternal, a desire placed by God Himself.

Jesus Christ as the Fulfillment of Eternal Purpose

Central to the Christian understanding of eternal purpose is the life and work of Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 1:9-10, the Apostle Paul writes, "And He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ." Here, Christ is depicted as the focal point of God's eternal plan, uniting all creation under His lordship.

The Role of the Believer

Believers are called to actively seek and participate in God's eternal purpose. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This directive underscores the priority of aligning one's life with God's kingdom and righteousness, which are eternal in nature.

Furthermore, in Romans 8:28, Paul reassures believers, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." This verse affirms that those who love God and are called by Him are part of His eternal purpose, and He orchestrates all events in their lives towards this end.

Living with Eternal Perspective

To seek eternal purpose is to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that earthly life is temporary and that true fulfillment is found in God's eternal plan. Colossians 3:1-2 exhorts believers, "Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This passage encourages a focus on heavenly realities, which are eternal, rather than transient earthly concerns.

The Assurance of Eternal Life

The pursuit of eternal purpose is intrinsically linked to the promise of eternal life. In John 17:3, Jesus prays, "Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent." Eternal life is not merely an unending existence but a relationship with God through Christ, which begins in the present and continues into eternity.

Conclusion

The call to seek eternal purpose is a call to align one's life with God's divine will, as revealed through Scripture and the person of Jesus Christ. It is a pursuit that offers meaning, direction, and hope, grounded in the assurance of God's eternal promises.