What is Eternal Life?

John 17:2–3 — New Living Translation (NLT)

² For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him. ³ And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.

Eternal life is a concept that transcends mere existence; it embodies a profound spiritual reality that is often discussed in religious texts. One of the most illuminating passages regarding eternal life can be found in the Gospel of John, specifically in John 17:2-3.

In this passage, Jesus speaks of eternal life not as an endless duration, but as a relationship. Eternal life is defined as knowing the one true God and knowing Jesus Christ, the one sent by God. This reframes eternity away from a purely future reward and toward a present, living reality. Eternal life begins not at death, but at the moment a person enters into genuine communion with God.

Several key ideas emerge from this understanding:

1. Eternal life is relational, not merely temporal: Rather than focusing on unending existence, the passage emphasizes knowing God. In biblical terms, “knowing” implies intimacy, trust, and lived experience—not just intellectual belief. Eternal life, then, is about a shared life with God.

2. Eternal life is grounded in Christ: Jesus presents himself as central to this life. Knowing God is inseparable from knowing Christ, highlighting his role as mediator and revealer of God’s nature. Eternal life flows through this relationship.

3. Eternal life begins now: It begins on Earth because it is defined by relationship rather than chronology, eternal life is something believers participate in during their earthly lives. The future hope of resurrection is still vital, but it grows out of a present spiritual reality.

4. Eternal life gives meaning to existence: This perspective transforms daily life. Faith is not merely about securing a future destination, but about living a transformed life marked by purpose, love, and alignment with God’s will here and now.

In short, John 17:2–3 presents eternal life as a quality of life rooted in divine relationship, not simply an infinite extension of human existence. Within Christian faith, this makes eternal life both a present gift and a future hope—something to be lived, not just awaited.