"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” (John 5:24 NIV)

Jesus made this powerful point numerous times. Notice that he used the word “has” when talking about eternal life. Likewise, when talking about crossing over from death to life, Jesus used the word “has.” Believer, these are things that have already occurred in your life!

Obviously, you will experience the fullness of eternal life in the future; we have not yet attained the glory of heaven. But through faith in Jesus Christ, we already have been made part of God’s eternal family. You “will not be condemned” because Jesus Christ has washed away any reason God had to condemn you. Through faith in Jesus you live in the security of God’s perfect love.

Of course, you only see this by faith. Your eyes still see failures – in yourself and in the world. You still suffer the sorrows and pains that come from living in a sinful world.

But faith sees much more. Faith sees the promise of Jesus Christ who has already given you eternal life. Faith sees the certain reality of heaven. Faith sees that you are alive right now to live as his child – even though the sorrows and pains of life do not go away.

You have already won because Jesus Christ is your Savior. Look at what you already have because of him and be strong and faithful to him.

Pastor Wempner

Pastor Zarling