Who Will Inherit Eternal Life? Series

The Bible teaches that only a few will enter the kingdom of heaven. Jesus said, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Matthew 7:13-14)

So, who will inherit eternal life, and who will not? Let's explore the biblical teachings on this crucial topic.

Those Who Will Inherit Eternal Life

Those who put their faith in Jesus Christ: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

Those who repent and turn from their sins: "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord." (Acts 3:19)

Those who love and obey God's commandments: "If you love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)

Those who persevere in their faith: "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." (James 1:12)

Those Who Will Not Inherit Eternal Life

Those who reject Jesus Christ: "Whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on them." (John 3:36)

Those who continue in sin and rebellion: "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)

Those who do not produce fruit of repentance: "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance." (Matthew 3:8)

Those who are lukewarm in their faith: "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:16)

Biblical Examples

The Rich Young Ruler: Jesus told the rich young ruler to sell all his possessions and follow Him, but the ruler chose not to, and Jesus said, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." (Matthew 19:24)

The Pharisees: Jesus condemned the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and self-righteousness, saying, "You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to." (Matthew 23:13)

The Prodigal Son: The prodigal son, who squandered his inheritance and returned to his father in repentance, is an example of someone who will inherit eternal life. Jesus said, "But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!' So they began to celebrate." (Luke 15:22-24)

Conclusion

The Bible teaches that only those who put their faith in Jesus Christ, repent of their sins, love and obey God's commandments, and persevere in their faith will inherit eternal life. Those who reject Jesus Christ, continue in sin and rebellion, do not produce fruit of repentance, and are lukewarm in their faith will not inherit eternal life. May we strive to follow the narrow path that leads to life, and may we encourage others to do the same.