Eternal and Eternity: Understanding the Timeless Dimension Beyond Earthly Existence

The concept of eternity transcends human understanding of time, representing a never-ending dimension that existed before creation and will continue forever. This profound truth shapes our understanding of destiny, divine nature, and the ultimate choices that determine our eternal destination.

The Nature of Eternity

Eternity is the never-ending period of time which existed before the creation of the world and will continue after the end of this present age. People will spend this forever ‘time’ either in heaven or hell, depending on whether they accepted Christ as Saviour and lived for Him or not. At the time of death a person’s fate is sealed with no further opportunity to repent and accept Christ for “Man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” (Heb 9:27). Eternity without Jesus is a long time!

We humans cannot fully grasp eternity because we have a linear ‘time’ concept with a start and end to our short assignment of earthly life. However the Bible says the unseen dimension is eternal, while the realm we relate to now is only temporary (Job 14:1-2; Ps 144:4; Mt 24:35; 2 Cor 4:18).

The Eternal Nature of God

It is an attribute of God that He is eternal – the Father, Son (Jesus) and Holy Spirit have always existed and always will (Deut 33:27; Ps 41:13; Heb 1:10-12). This eternal nature distinguishes the Creator from creation and provides the foundation for understanding God’s unchanging character and everlasting promises.

The Bible clearly presents either of two eternal destinations for every soul. The choice we make during our earthly life determines where we will spend eternity. This decision carries infinite consequences, making it the most important choice any person will ever face. The urgency of this decision cannot be overstated, as our time to choose is limited to our brief earthly existence.

There are only two options as to where we spend eternity – the choice is yours

The short span of our earthly life serves as the determining period for our eternal future. This temporal assignment is our only opportunity to respond to God’s offer of salvation through Christ. Once this life ends, our eternal destination is fixed forever. Understanding this reality should compel us to live with eternal perspective and make choices that align with God’s purposes.

During our brief earthly life we determine our eternal destiny

The innate sense that there is more to life than our earthly experience comes from God Himself. Most people have a sense that this life is not all there is, partially comprehending a dimension beyond for God has put that sense of eternity in the hearts of humanity (Eccl 3:11; 2 Cor 5:1), creating within us a longing for something beyond this temporal world. This internal awareness points to our eternal destiny and draws us toward the One who fulfills our deepest longings.

Through Jesus Christ, God offers the gift of eternal life to all who believe. This gift is not earned through good works but received through faith in Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection. Eternal life begins the moment we trust in Christ and continues forever in His presence, free from sin, suffering, and death.

Christ offers the gift of eternal life

Reflection and Application:

Consider your own understanding of eternity and how it influences your daily choices and priorities.
Reflect on the reality that your eternal destination is determined by your response to Christ in this life.
Thank God for placing the sense of eternity in your heart and drawing you to Himself.
Share the message of eternal life through Christ with others who may not have made their decision.