WHAT’S REQUIRED

There are many things in the Scriptures that teach us about Godly living, right attitudes and behaviors, moral principles and interpersonal relationships. Paul, an apostle, wrote letters that are especially expansive along these lines. Though much of this information is formative and essential for growth, it is not what is essential for eternal life.

In the Final Discourse prayer of John 17, Jesus prayed, “And this is eternal life: that people know you, the only true God, and that they know Jesus Christ, the One you sent.” (17: 3) That is required.

Anne Lamott, popular author wrote: “I didn’t need to understand the hypostatic unity of the Trinity; I just needed to turn my life over to whoever came up with redwood trees.”
(‘Plan B: Further Thoughts on Faith’)

Jesus continued with what’s required in John 17:3 with this concluding remark:

“Having finished the work you gave me to do, I brought you glory on earth.” Jesus