1 John 5:11
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
1 John 5:11 · King James Version
Meaning
John, the disciple of Jesus, wrote in his first letter that God has given us eternal life, and that this life is found only in his Son, Jesus Christ. This verse highlights the central belief of Christianity - that through faith in Jesus, believers can receive the gift of eternal life. In Christian theology, eternal life is not just about living forever, but it is also about experiencing a deep and meaningful relationship with God. By accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, Christians believe they can have a personal connection with God and experience his love, grace, and presence both in this life and in the life to come. This verse serves as a reminder to Christians of the hope and assurance they have in Jesus, who is the source of eternal life and the key to salvation. It encapsulates the core message of the Gospel - that through faith in Jesus, believers can have a new life in him, both now and forever.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse "And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son," emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ as the source of eternal life for believers. The phrase "this life is in his Son" underscores the essential role of Jesus in granting eternal life to those who have faith in Him. This verse highlights the inseparable connection between God the Father and Jesus the Son in the salvation of humanity, emphasizing the unique relationship between them. The theological implication of eternal life being found in Jesus Christ points to the exclusivity of salvation through Him, emphasizing the centrality of Christ in the Christian faith. In terms of word studies, the emphasis on "this life" points to the eternal nature of the life that God offers through His Son, a life that transcends earthly limitations and endures forever. The word "record" in this context serves to affirm the truth and certainty of this message, underscoring the reliability of God's promise of eternal life through Jesus.
1 John 5:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the witness is this, that God gave unto us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
World English Bible
The testimony is this, that God gave to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
Douay-Rheims
And this is the testimony that God hath given to us eternal life. And this life is in his Son.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And this is that record, to wit, that God hath giuen vnto vs eternall life, and this life is in that his Sonne.