Living In Light Of Eternity

LIVING IN LIGHT OF ETERNITY

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Colossians 3:1-4

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”

Supporting Texts: 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Matthew 6:19-21, 1 John 2:15-17, Philippians 3:20-21, Revelation 21:1-4

INTRODUCTION:

As believers in Christ, we are called to live with eternity in view. The world constantly pulls our attention to the temporary — possessions, achievements, pleasures, and pains. But the Bible reminds us that our true citizenship is in heaven and our focus should be on things above. Living in the light of eternity changes how we make decisions, handle trials, and pursue purpose. It’s a call to live every day as if Christ could return at any moment.

1. ETERNAL FOCUS SHIFTS EARTHLY PRIORITIES

A heavenly mindset redirects what you value most.

a) The Things of This World Are Temporary

Earthly gains fade away, but heavenly treasures last forever (1 John 2:17).

b) Christ Must Be the Centre of Our Pursuits

Seeking Him is greater than seeking the world (Matthew 6:33).

c) Living for Eternity Produces Spiritual Discipline

We live intentionally and purposefully (Ephesians 5:15-17).

d) Our Desires Must Align with God’s Kingdom

Where your treasure is, there your heart will be (Matthew 6:21).

Biblical Example – Moses chose to suffer affliction with God’s people rather than enjoy temporary pleasures in Egypt (Hebrews 11:24-26).

2. THE REALITY OF HEAVEN AND HELL SHOULD INFLUENCE OUR LIVING

What we believe about eternity shapes how we live today.

a) Heaven Is a Prepared Place for Prepared People

We must live ready to meet the Lord (John 14:2-3).

b) Hell Is Real and Eternal

A life without Christ ends in separation from God (Revelation 20:15).

c) Grace Is the Open Door to Eternity with Christ

Salvation is the beginning of eternal life (Ephesians 2:8-9).

d) Our Daily Living Should Reflect Eternal Choices

We must choose the narrow path that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14).

Biblical Example – The rich man and Lazarus showed the eternal consequence of earthly choices (Luke 16:19-31).

3. SUFFERINGS TODAY ARE NOTHING COMPARED TO ETERNAL GLORY

Temporary pain cannot compare to permanent reward.

a) Trials Are Momentary and Working for Our Good

God is using them to prepare us for glory (2 Corinthians 4:17).

b) We Must Not Lose Heart Amid Suffering

The eternal reward outweighs the present burden (Romans 8:18).

c) Persecution for Christ Leads to Crown of Life

Enduring faithfully brings eternal honour (James 1:12).

d) Faith in Eternity Strengthens Endurance

We press on knowing a crown awaits (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Biblical Example – Paul suffered greatly yet remained focused on the eternal reward (2 Corinthians 11:23-27; Philippians 3:14).

4. WE MUST LIVE AS CITIZENS OF HEAVEN

Your identity in Christ determines your conduct on earth.

a) Our True Home Is Not Earth, But Heaven

We are pilgrims and strangers in this world (Hebrews 11:13).

b) Heavenly Citizens Reflect Christ's Character

We must walk in righteousness, love, and holiness (Philippians 1:27).

c) Earthly Things Must Not Control Us

We must not be entangled with the affairs of this world (2 Timothy 2:4).

d) Our Conduct Must Be Worthy of Our Heavenly Calling

Let your lifestyle reflect your eternal hope (Titus 2:11-13).

Biblical Example – Abraham lived in tents, looking for a city whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:10).

5. JESUS IS COMING BACK — BE READY

The return of Christ is both a hope and a warning.

a) His Return Is Certain and Imminent

No man knows the day or hour (Matthew 24:44).

b) Readiness Requires Daily Watchfulness

Keep your lamp burning (Luke 12:35-36).

c) Spiritual Laziness Can Lead to Eternal Regret

Don’t be like the five foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1-13).

d) Living in Readiness Brings Eternal Joy

Blessed are those servants whom the master finds watching (Luke 12:37).

Biblical Example – The early church lived in anticipation of Christ’s return (Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).

CONCLUSION:

To live in light of eternity is to live with purpose, urgency, and hope. It means fixing our eyes on Jesus and prioritising eternal things above earthly distractions. Life on earth is brief, but eternity is forever. Let your decisions, values, and actions reflect that you are heaven-bound. For when Christ, who is your life, shall appear, you shall appear with Him in glory.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to set my mind on things above and not on earthly distractions.

2. Father, give me the grace to live with eternity in view every day.