We have eternal life
1 John 5:11
And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
Biblical Context
The First Epistle of John was written to assure believers of their salvation and to reaffirm the foundations of their faith. In chapter 5, John summarizes his message, emphasizing that faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God is the victory that overcomes the world. The verses preceding this passage speak of the "testimony of God," which is the truth He has revealed. Verse 11 is the direct and clear statement of what that testimony is.
Teaching
It is a fundamental statement about the central promise of Christianity: eternal life. John affirms that this is not an uncertain hope, but a reality and a present gift that God has given. The crucial point is that this eternal life is not obtained through merit or good works, but is found "in his Son," Jesus Christ. This means that eternal life is inseparable from a personal relationship with Jesus. It is not just a future destination, but a new quality of life that begins at the moment of faith in Him.
The Central Promise
God has promised us eternal life, a priceless gift that surpasses any other promise.
The Way to Obtain It
The promise of eternal life is not abstract; it is anchored in a person: Jesus Christ. The only way to access this promise is through faith in Him.
Security and Certainty
The word "testimony" indicates that this promise is a verified and reliable fact. Therefore, God's children can be certain and assured that they already possess eternal life through their relationship with Jesus.