“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10
The world still debates when life begins. Is it at conception? Is it sometime during the pregnancy? Or is it at birth? For many it is the moment a sperm and egg cells unite. There is a beginning point for our life, the physical life. In a similar way, there must be a beginning point to our spiritual life. It occurs in the moment of salvation.
This is the life Jesus came to provide for all of mankind: “I came that they may have life.” He was not speaking of the physical but the spiritual life. This life begins the moment someone turns their life over to God. “Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13
The spiritual life is a life in relationship with God. Though separated from God because of sin (See Isaiah 59:2), we can be reunited with God through repentance. The word repent has at least two aspects. One is to turn, to go in a new or different direction. In the spiritual sense, turn away from sin and turn to God. But it includes both turning away from sinful acts and beginning a new understanding of how to live for God rather than self:
“He (Jesus) died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.” 2 Cor. 5:15
This is the life Jesus called the abundant life or life to the full. It is the life lived in relationship with the Father. It begins the moment anyone recognizes their sin and accepts the gift of eternal life Jesus promises: “I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish…” John 10:28
Unfortunately, many miss this important point: eternal life begins the moment one turns to God in true repentance. Salvation is not simply the door to heaven but – the door to and the opportunity for – an abundant life here and now with God: Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life…” John 14:6
Jesus did not say “I will be” but “I am”! He is the way to God, the truth of God and the life in God. There is no spiritual life without God. Living in relationship with God is not simply a future hope with God in heaven but a life lived daily with God in the here and now. The abundant life Jesus promised begins the day, the moment we accept His gift of salvation.
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
Don’t wait for the door of heaven to open before you truly begin living with the Lord!
Because He Lives….Bro. Sherman
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