Eternal Life in John

Since “all Scripture is breathed out by God” (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV), God is Scripture’s ultimate Author. One may correctly say, “God said,” introducing a quote from Scripture. However, God allowed each human author to have his own distinct style and vocabulary. In some cases, different authors may use a word or phrase with their own distinct meaning.

“Eternal life” in the synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke) and Paul’s epistles refers to life as in heaven (Mark 10:30). John, however, in his Gospel account and epistles, says, “We have eternal life” using “eternal life” as equivalent to forgiveness of sins.

In Scripture, death is often “separation” from God. When our sins are forgiven, we have “life” again. The nature of that life is not physical but eternal – reconciliation to God.