Wars, terrorists attacks, bombings, murders – all these are an indication of an angry society. Human life can be snuffed out in a moment. The critical question is are you prepared to die? Do you possess eternal life with Christ Jesus? The Greek word for eternal life is the word “zoe.” In an angry society where random mass shootings are occurring, we must all be ready to die. Sandy Hook school in Connecticut is an example. Pertaining to the word zoe, seven principles come to mind:
1.) We can walk in newness of life. When we possess eternal life, the moment we become born again, we possess character traits in line with the Holy Spirit. Our angry spirits are replaced with love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, self-control, meekness, etc. (Galatians 5:22,23). Angry people are not at peace with themselves.
2.) When we have eternal life, we have a deep, abiding joy and peace whereby we can encounter the stresses and strains of life with serenity.
3.) We manifest the character of Christ. Christlike character draws those outside of Christianity to savior since it’s that intangible something within us that makes Christianity attractive.
4.) We can witness effectively for Christ since the Holy Spirit within us gives us the words to adequately convey the meaning of the cross and how it’s central to the Christian faith.
5.) We are washed of our sins and we have new natures fit for heaven (2 Corinthians 5:17). When we have zoe, eternal life, we can have the sacrificial love for others. The Greek word is agape.
To have zoe, eternal life in Christ means:
6.) We have his righteousness. We are in right standing with Christ. Christ gives us his nature in exchange for our sins.
7.) Finally, to have zoe, eternal life, means we reign as kings and priests. Every Christian is a priest and king.
Society is escalating in anger. You can have zoe, eternal life in heaven, by making a commitment to follow Christ Jesus.
“Follow me,” Christ said to Matthew, the tax collector. Following Christ means forsaking a worldly lifestyle for zoe, eternal life.
JOHN SIRTOLI
Gloversville
