Understanding Eternal Life in Scripture

The biblical concept of eternal life cannot be defined simply by dissecting its parts. Eternal life is not merely unending bodily existence, as even the damned will have this after the resurrection. Rather, eternal life signifies a distinct quality of existence. While there are verses that speak of believers already possessing eternal life, there are also passages that speak of eternal life as something they have yet to receive. To receive eternal life, believers are exhorted to keep themselves in the love of God and wait for the mercy of Jesus Christ.