And this is eternal life: [it means] to know (to perceive, recognize, become acquainted with, and understand) You, the only true and real God, and [likewise] to know Him, Jesus [as the] Christ (the Anointed One, the Messiah), Whom You have sent.
John 17:3 AMPC
Jesus emphasises that eternal life involves more than endless existence—it’s about intimacy with God. This relationship with both the Father and the Son is life-transforming and foundational for experiencing true spiritual fulfilment. As believers, it’s essential to cultivate intimacy with God. This goes beyond just knowing about Him; it’s about truly knowing Him. Intimacy with God is what leads to eternal life and daily transformation.
So, do you truly know Him? This is the heart cry of Jesus—that everyone comes to the knowledge of Him. Throughout His ministry, Jesus repeatedly expressed His desire for people to know God and understand the truth of who He is. He came to reveal the Father and invite us into a relationship with Him through Christ.
In John 14:6-7, Jesus says: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.’”
Jesus is the only way to truly know the Father. It is through Him that the world can see the nature and love of God.
Meanwhile, to know God is relational. It’s not about simply knowing facts or doctrines about Him, but rather having a personal and ongoing connection. Just as you grow to truly know a close friend or family member through time spent together and shared experiences, knowing God involves intimacy and communication.
Jesus explains this relational dynamic in John 15. “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” (John 15:15 NIV) This shows that knowing God means being in a close, personal relationship with Him.
As a Christian, to experience this eternal life, you must know God up close and not from a distance. True intimacy with God is living in His presence daily—not just during church services or special spiritual moments. We must invite Him into every part of our lives, recognising His presence in our everyday activities, struggles, and decisions.
Finally, James 4:8 (NIV) reminds us: “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” When we actively seek closeness with God through prayer, worship, and reading His Word, He draws nearer to us. This intimacy is the key to experiencing the fullness of the life He offers.
In conclusion, to experience eternal life as a Christian means far more than just believing in God from a distance. It means entering a close, intimate relationship with Him through Jesus Christ—where you know Him personally, walk with Him daily, and trust Him fully. This intimacy is nurtured through prayer, studying Scripture, trust, obedience, and being continually transformed by His Holy Spirit.
Eternal life begins the moment you truly know God, not just in the future but right now, as you live in fellowship with Him. Living in intimate communion with God brings true, abundant, and eternal life. Jesus’ mission is clear: He came to seek and save the lost. He came to bring those who do not yet know God into this transforming relationship. His heart cries out for the lost to know Him and experience eternal life that only comes through a relationship with God.
