In speaking about Christ, Paul noted His eternal nature and preeminence in His having been involved in bringing creation to life (Colossians 1:16) and being the One remaining the sustainer of all things. (Colossians 1:17) When John introduced the Messiah in his gospel, he stated that “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.” (John 1:4) Jesus even acknowledged Himself as being “the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) Earlier in His ministry Jesus stated that those who were willing to hear His word and believe in the One Who had sent Him, had “passed from death to life.” (John 5:24) That noted a present transition. He also noted His words as being “spirit and life.” (John 6:63) And at a time when some struggled with Jesus’ teaching and chose to turn away, Peter declared, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68) Though there are those who in embracing what they think is life are losing it while others in losing it are finding it (note Matthew 16:25), let us understand in connection with Jesus it is truly all about life!
Therefore, Peter encouragingly wrote to Christians going through trying times. . .
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, (4) to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, (5) who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3-5 ESV)
Because of Jesus and the power He revealed He has over death — as declared by His own resurrection from the dead — we have a “living hope.” Because of Jesus, we have an eternity reserved in Heaven. Because of Jesus — regardless of what we might be going through in this realm — our focus can still be all about life! Because, living in Jesus and for Jesus, our life is on an eternal foundation as we have taken hold of that which is “truly life”! (1 Timothy 6:19) May we therefore press on encouraged by the “living hope” that is ours in Christ!
Have a great day LIVING ALIVE IN CHRIST!
Carl
