Jesus; the way out of death and the way into the good life.

I tell you the truth, said Jesus, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.

Resurrection happens to the dead and happens to everyone. Eternal life happens now and happens to those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God. It is right, says Jesus, to honor the Son just as we honor the Father, whoever does not honor him does not honor the Father.

To some people, said Jesus, praise from people is more important than praise from God. That way of thinking is a barrier to the good life. A self-erected barrier. It is composed of bricks named, What will they think? Will I look foolish? Will it put me in difficult situations? How about dismantling that self-erected barrier? It can be done instantly by realising that the Father praises, approves, honors and supports the person who believes in Jesus. To believe in Jesus is to be united with the Father. Reflect for a moment on the situation of being united with and supported by God and then contrast that to the situation of continually trying to get the praise of people.

Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life. Don't be afraid to believe, but be very afraid to remain alive without possessing eternal life.

(Gospel of John chapter 5 verse 19-45)