John 6:47
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
As believers, we are privileged to have the assurance of eternal security through our faith in Jesus Christ and His words. In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of this profound truth in verses 6:47 and 8:47. Let us explore these passages and reflect on the eternal security we have when we believe in Jesus and His life-giving words.
John 8:47
Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.
Belonging to God
In John 8:47, Jesus affirms that those who belong to God will hear and recognize His words. As followers of Christ, we have been adopted into God's family through faith in Jesus. We are His beloved children, and our relationship with Him secures our eternal destiny. When we belong to God, our hearts are open to receive His truth, guidance, and love.
Hearing God's Word
Belonging to God entails actively listening to what He says. It is through the study and meditation on His Word that we come to know Him more intimately. As we engage with the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit illuminates our hearts and helps us discern truth from falsehood. The more we immerse ourselves in God's Word, the clearer our understanding becomes, leading to a deeper faith and an unshakeable assurance of our eternal security in Christ.
Belief and Eternal Life
In John 6:47, Jesus declares that eternal life is granted to those who believe in Him. Our faith in Jesus is not merely intellectual assent, but a heartfelt trust in His redemptive work on the cross. It is through this faith that we receive the gift of eternal life, a life that transcends the boundaries of time and space. Our belief in Jesus secures our place in His kingdom, guaranteeing us an eternity of joy, peace, and fellowship with Him.
Trusting in Jesus' Words
Eternal security rests not only in believing in Jesus but also in trusting His words. The words of Christ are not mere human wisdom but divine truth that brings life and transformation. When we align our lives with His teachings, we find guidance, comfort, and the path to abundant life. Jesus' words provide the solid foundation on which our faith stands, assuring us that we are eternally safe in His loving care. In John 6:63, Jesus tells us: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
Living in Confidence
Understanding and embracing the eternal security we have in Christ should fill us with gratitude and confidence. Our salvation is not based on our own efforts or merit but on the finished work of Jesus on the cross. We can rest assured that our eternal destiny is secure in Him, regardless of our circumstances or struggles. This assurance empowers us to live boldly for His glory, sharing His love and truth with others.
Conclusion
Dear friends, as we reflect on John 6:47 and 8:47, let us rejoice in the eternal security we have in Christ. We belong to God, and as His children, we hear His voice and follow His teachings. Our belief in Jesus and His words grants us the assurance of eternal life. May this truth inspire us to live confidently, anchored in the unshakable hope of salvation and to share this good news with a world in need of God's love.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of eternal security through faith in Jesus and His words. Help us to continually hear Your voice and deepen our understanding of Your truth. Strengthen our belief and trust in Jesus, that we may live confidently and boldly for Your kingdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.