Experts and Eternal Life

S - "A teacher of the Law of Moses stood up and asked Jesus a question to see what he would say. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to have eternal life?” Jesus answered, “What is written in the Scriptures? How do you understand them?” The man replied, “The Scriptures say, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.’ They also say, ‘Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself.’” Jesus said, “You have given the right answer. If you do this, you will have eternal life.”" Luke 10

O - An expert in the Scriptures asked the Expert at everything a direct question regarding eternal life. In response to his question, Jesus asked him how he was understanding the Scriptures.  His answer was the greatest commandments, those upon which all other Scriptures depend (Matthew 22:40). They are not commandments rife with theological terminology or conclusions.  They are completely relational in their nature and in their engagement. They do not demand prayers, confessions, conclusions or creeds.  The Expert (Jesus) added nothing to them. Eternal life is found, obtained and maintained relationally.  According to Jesus, if anyone does this, they will have eternal life.  

A - Earth wants me to think eternal life is obtained by confessing a creed or accepting certain theological conclusions and to place my confidence in them.  The One from Heaven tells us that eternal life is found in a loving relationship and to place my confidence in a person. In fact, his definition of eternal life confirms this: “This is eternal life: to know you, the only true God, and to know Jesus Christ, the one you sent. (John 17:3)” It is not knowing about God or Jesus, but knowing them.  This is a great joy and straightforward point of clarity.  You know if you actually know someone AND you know if you only know about them. According to Jesus, eternal life for us humans is where heaven touches earth … loving God and loving my neighbor (7.7 billion minus one … anyone who's not me). I believe Jesus.  I'll do this and I will live.  

P - God of all and God of me,

I am eternally grateful for Jesus coming to clarify your person and purposes.  Thank you for loving us first and most and for refusing to change your mind.  Thank you for wanting us to love you back.  I am glad to know you, not just about you. I accept the conclusion of the experts … I will love you back with my all and my neighbor as my equal. 

In Jesus,

Steve