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The Elements of Motivation (Part Six): Eternal Life

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

Eternal life, as presented in the Bible, extends beyond the concept of endless existence to encompass a profound quality of life. It is not merely about living forever but involves an intimate, personal relationship with God, akin to the deepest bond between two individuals. This relationship, highlighted in John 17:3, suggests a closeness of heart and mind, surpassing mere intellectual knowledge. Understanding eternal life in this way reveals why we endure trials and sharpens our focus on living according to God's purpose. It opens the door to the freest and most rewarding expressions of an abundant life, as knowing God empowers us to avoid destruction, much like knowledge of physical laws prevents harm. Without this knowledge, as Hosea 4:6 warns, we risk being destroyed, whereas possessing it yields a rich harvest of reward, enhancing the quality of our existence. Eternal life includes fellowship with God and beginning to live as He does, a life distinct from the one led before our calling. This fellowship, essential to eternal life, is the highest form, reserved for those summoned by God, and is marked by self-sacrificial love and mutual service within a tightly knit community. It is a life of giving, mirroring God's own way, as opposed to the self-centered way of human nature. To be in God's image, we must adopt this way of living, which is central to overcoming and growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, eternal life is bound to the life we live now, preparing us to walk with Him eternally. It is tied to doing the will of God, the driving principle of all creation. Permanent value and reality abide only in His purpose and will, and attaching ourselves to it ensures we belong to eternity, rather than passing away with the world and its lusts.

Investing in Eternal Life

Sermonette by John W. Ritenbaugh

Eternal life, as described in I Timothy 6:17-19, is not merely a duration of existence but a quality of life that is truly worth living. This life, referred to as "truly life," signifies an abundant life that holds value only if the conditions and circumstances are favorable. The concept emerges from the principle of generous giving and good works, which serve as an investment in the Kingdom of God. By conducting ourselves now in ways that please God—through generosity, readiness to give, and willingness to share—we store up treasures for the future, laying a firm foundation for the coming age. This abundant life is not restricted to those with wealth to give; it includes all who generously offer their time, energy, talents, and intelligence in service. The principle of giving, rather than the material wealth itself, is what matters most. Our actions in the present shape our character and set the foundation for eternal life, much like a concrete form that, once set, determines the structure built upon it. If we emulate God's generosity, we build a character that will endure into the Kingdom of God. Furthermore, the call to lay hold on this life urges us to actively and vigorously pursue it now, without indifference or delay. Our conduct in this life directly influences our capacity to grasp the fullness of the life that is truly life. By making the best use of our resources to serve and sacrifice in God's way, we secure great reward in building a character that is acceptable and useful for the future in His Kingdom.

The Gift of Eternal Life

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Eternal life, as described, is not merely about the duration of existence but emphasizes the quality and character of life. It is a divine gift from God, found exclusively in His Son, Jesus Christ. This life is not about endless existence but about a profound, vibrant quality that reflects the very life of God Himself. Eternal life means a share in God's peace, bringing serenity and liberation from fears that haunt human existence. It embodies power, enabling the defeat of frustration and victory over adverse circumstances through the strength of God's Spirit. It signifies holiness, offering a life of transcendent purity, separated from the world's infections and armed against sin. Eternal life also encompasses love, eradicating bitterness and hatred, and filling life with the selfless love of God as its core. Finally, it represents the defeat of death, providing an indestructible life sustained by God's own indestructibility. This quality of life, present now in believers through Jesus Christ, assures a current possession of eternal life, not just a future hope, but a present certainty of divine fellowship and superior existence.

Do You Really Want Just Any Eternal Life?

Sermon by Martin G. Collins

Eternal life, as presented, is not merely about endless duration but emphasizes a profound quality and character of life. It is a divine gift from God, found exclusively in His Son, Jesus Christ. This life is described as the very life of God Himself, characterized by peace, power, holiness, love, and indestructibility. Eternal life means serenity, a liberation from fears and anxieties that plague human existence, offering a lasting peace that encompasses health, prosperity, and tranquility. It signifies the defeat of frustration through the power of God, enabling victory over adverse circumstances and providing spiritual strength to remain faithful. It also entails the defeat of sin through God's holiness, clothing life with transcendent purity and separating it from worldly corruption. Furthermore, eternal life means the end of bitterness and hatred, embedding the love of God at its core, which transforms burdens into privileges and fosters a willingness to help others. Finally, it represents the defeat of death, offering an indestructible life sustained by God's love, ensuring that life's demands and changes do not have the final word. This quality of life, abiding in us through Jesus Christ, is the essence of the promise given to believers, assuring a present certainty of a superior existence rooted in fellowship with God and His Son.

Are You Living the Abundant Life?

'Ready Answer' by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Many perceive the Christian life as dull and restrictive, yet, lived according to biblical principles, it is ultimately more exciting, successful, and satisfying than most can imagine. Jesus Himself declares in John 10:10 that He came so that His followers may have life, and have it more abundantly. This abundant life, as Jesus describes, is not merely about material wealth or worldly success, but a life far better than one could envision, overflowing and superabundant in quality. In John 17:3, Jesus defines eternal life as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. This perspective shifts the focus from earthly possessions to a deeper, spiritual connection. As Christians set their minds on things above, as urged in Colossians 3:2-3, life takes on a new meaning, hidden with Christ in God. This relationship with the Creator becomes the key to abundant living, surpassing any material achievement. The abundant life is found in walking in the Spirit, aligning with God's commandments through the grace provided by Jesus Christ. Such a life naturally becomes fulfilling, free from the penalties of breaking the law, and is pleasing to God, who blesses it both now and in the life to come. Even in humble circumstances, this way of living yields peace, spiritual growth, and good fruit, demonstrating that true abundance lies in a godly perspective, regardless of one's situation.

Are You Living an Abundant Life?

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

If Christianity is lived the way Christ intended, rather than as represented by media caricatures, it is one of the most exhilarating and abundant lifestyles.

Life in the Church

Sermon by David C. Grabbe

Outwardly, many members in Sardis bore Christ's name, but like the apparently religious Pharisees, they were in reality hypocrites, full of dead men's bones.

In Him Was Life

Sermon by Richard T. Ritenbaugh

Although we have physical-chemical existence, we do not yet have God's quality of life. The key quality of eternal life is a vibrant relationship with God.

Passover and the Blood of Jesus Christ

Sermonette by David C. Grabbe

Christ's blood does much more than remit sin; it gives eternal life. The Passover wine represents the blood of the covenant, by which we are made complete.

Eternal Responsibilities

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. Collins

We each have an eternal responsibility to do the will of God, continually seeking Him. Those who do not choose God's way of life will be mercifully put to death.

From Both Sides Now and the Greatest Day

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark Schindler

We must know both where we are starting and where we are going, having absolute faith that we will get there. If we do, taking that last step will be as certain as the first.

Elements of Motivation (Part Seven)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Eternal life, emphasizing a special intimate relationship with God the Father and Christ, is vastly different from immortality, connoting only endless existence.

Natural Law

CGG Weekly by David C. Grabbe

Gravity is but one of the many natural laws. These cause-and-effect principles operate continuously in our lives. We either comply, or we suffer the consequences.

Deuteronomy (Part 1) (1994)

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Deuteronomy could be considered the New Testament of the Old Testament, serving as a commentary on the Ten Commandments. It gives vision for critical times.

Seeking God (Part One): Our Biggest Problem

'Personal' from John W. Ritenbaugh

After making the covenant with God, how does a person avoid backsliding? The answer lies in seeking God, which involves much more than commonly thought.

John (Part Twenty-Five)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Eternal life is to know God, seeking Him to imitate Him, living as He does, and developing an intimate relationship with Him. This brings an abundant life.

Deuteronomy (Part 2)

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We need to develop vision (the ability to see in the mind's eye) so that by living the statutes of Deuteronomy, we may become a witness to all of mankind.

The Resurrection From the Dead

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Our lives revolve around the hope of a resurrection from the dead. Hope, deriving from Christ's resurrection, gives faith and love impetus and energy.

Four Views of Christ (Part 6)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Christ provides a model of how to live a godly life in the flesh, living life the way God lives it. Using His light, we can navigate our way in this world.

Deuteronomy (Part 4) (1994)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We must seek God as ardently as we would a physical love relationship, spending quality time with Him. If we make no effort, the relationship cools.

In Search of a Clear World View (Part Two)

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

The true church is a unique educational institution, teaching the way of God and amplifying His Commandments, in contrast to the churches of this world.

God, the Church's Greatest Problem

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

After our calling, we must seek God and His way, for our conduct is motivated by our concept of God. Coming to know God is the church's biggest problem.

The Needed Dimension

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Unless we humbly submit before God, all of His efforts go for naught. God will not give His Spirit to those who will not obey Him.

Intimacy with Christ (Part Four)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

We don't really know something unless we have experienced it. Knowing God manifests itself in the way one lives, reflecting faithfulness and obedience.

Holiness (Part 1)

Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

To appropriate the name of God means to represent His attributes, character and nature. Our behavior must imitate Christ just as Christ revealed God the Father.

Deuteronomy: What Is God Looking For?

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)

Deuteronomy constitutes instruction for the Israel of God, serving as a compass and guide, preparing God's people to enter the Kingdom of God.

Philippians (Part Four)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

Paul teaches that individual overcoming in lowliness of mind, putting others ahead of self, leads to the whole body being strengthened.

You Are What You Choose

Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh

Young people must make a choice in favor of God's will. We have the freedom of choice to set our destiny, and must bear the consequences of our choice.

John (Part Seventeen)

Sermon/Bible Study by John W. Ritenbaugh

The shepherd and door analogies in John 10 depict the close relationship of Jesus with His flock as the security and stability provided by His protection.