The Elusive Fountain and the Enduring Spring: A Biblical Approach on How to Live Forever
How to live forever has been a human pursuit as old as time itself. From the mythical quests for the Fountain of Youth to modern scientific advancements, the yearning for a life unmarred by mortality has captivated our imaginations. Yet, the Bible offers a far more profound and enduring answer to this fundamental question: how to live forever.
The Fading Promise of Earthly Remedies
Throughout history, legends whispered of a hidden spring or magical potion that could grant eternal youth. The Epic of Gilgamesh, a Mesopotamian poem dating back to 2100 BC, tells the tale of the king who sought such a fountain after learning of his own mortality. Roman myths spoke of the mythical land of Elysium, where the blessed enjoyed eternal life. Even the explorer Ponce de León, in the 16th century, embarked on a fruitless search for the Fountain of Youth in Florida.
However, the Bible paints a different picture. Genesis 3 recounts the story of Adam and Eve’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden, where they had access to the Tree of Life. Their disobedience brought sin and death into the world (Romans 5:12). The pursuit of physical immortality through earthly means is thus a futile endeavor.
Jesus Christ: The True Fountain of Everlasting Life
The true answer to everlasting life lies not in a physical spring or potion, but in a spiritual transformation through faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
This concept of “everlasting life” differs from mere physical existence. It refers to a spiritual state of eternal communion with God. Jesus himself stated in John 17:3, “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” True life, then, is found not in endless years on this earth, but in a relationship with the divine.
The Bible offers several key steps on how to attain this everlasting life through faith:
- Faith in Jesus Christ: As John 14:6 proclaims, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Believing in Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross is the foundation for eternal life.
- Repentance and Baptism: Acts 2:38 instructs, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Repentance signifies a turning away from sin and a commitment to following Christ’s teachings. Baptism symbolizes a spiritual rebirth and cleansing.
- Following Christ’s Teachings: Living a life that reflects Christ’s values, as outlined in the Gospels, is crucial. This includes loving God and neighbor, demonstrating forgiveness, and living a morally upright life (Matthew 22:37-39).
These are not one-time actions but rather a continuous journey of faith. The Bible encourages believers to grow in their faith, studying scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17), participating in the fellowship of believers (Hebrews 10:25), and living a life that reflects their faith through good works (James 2:17).
How to Live Forever: Living for Eternity
The concept of everlasting life may seem abstract, but the Bible offers tangible assurances. Firstly, believers experience a transformed life here on earth. They are promised forgiveness of sins (Romans 8:1), the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17), and the strength to overcome challenges (Philippians 4:13). Secondly, the Bible speaks of a future bodily resurrection for believers (1 Corinthians 15:12-26). This resurrected state will not be subject to pain, decay, or death, but will be a perfect and eternal existence in the presence of God (Revelation 21:4).
Man’s quest to discover how to live forever is limited by earthly bounds. The search for the Fountain of Youth, while a captivating narrative, ultimately ends in disappointment. The Bible offers a far greater hope: a life that transcends the limitations of the physical world and extends into eternity through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a life lived in relationship with God, one that begins here and on, and a promise that offers true and lasting comfort in the face of our inevitable mortality.
Learn more about eternal life by reading “Where is Thy Sting.”