Eternal Life Reimagined: A Relationship with the True God
The meaning of John 17:3 is that eternal life is determined not by the mere duration of time, but by the quality of one’s relationship with the True God. Here, Jesus emphasizes that eternal life is the opportunity to know the One True God through personal communication with Him—a connection made possible through His sent messenger, Jesus Christ. In other words, the knowledge of God in this verse implies a deep, personal, and continuous communion with Him, which forms the very foundation of Christianity.Supporting citation(s):"This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God" (John 17:3). In these words of Christ—lies all of Christianity. (source: link txt)Another biblical commentary also points out that the concept of knowing God in this verse goes beyond mere acquaintance with religious dogmas – it is a knowledge that becomes life, in response to that unique connection established by God with humanity through Jesus Christ. This relationship reflects the very essence of Christian faith, where eternal life derives its meaning from forming a true and profound communion with the Father.Supporting citation(s):"17:3 On knowing God, see commentary on 10:4,5." (source: link txt)Thus, the verse’s meaning is that eternal life is not a promise of endless existence without God, but rather the possibility of attaining a new, qualitative life through knowing the True God and establishing a deep and genuine connection with Him through Jesus Christ.