It occurs frequently in the New Testament ( Matthew 7:14; 18:8,9; Luke 10:28; comp 18:18). It comprises the whole future of the redeemed (Luke 16:9 ), and is opposed to "eternal punishment" (Matthew 19:29; 25:46 ). It is the final reward and glory into which the children of God enter (1 Timothy 6:12,19; Romans 6:22; Galatians 6:8; 1 Timothy 1:16; Romans 5:21 ); their Sabbath of rest (Hebrews 4:9; comp 12:22).
The newness of life which the believer derives from Christ (Romans 6:4 ) is the very essence of salvation, and hence the life of glory or the eternal life must also be theirs (Romans 6:8; 2 Timothy 2:11,12; Romans 5:17,21; 8:30; Ephesians 2:5,6 ). It is the "gift of God in Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23 ). The life the faithful have here on earth (John 3:36; 5:24; 6:47,53-58 ) is inseparably connected with the eternal life beyond, the endless life of the future, the happy future of the saints in heaven (Matthew 19:16,29; 25:46 ).
Easton's Bible Dictionary was written by Matthew George Easton, who lived from 1823-1894. This Scottish Presbyterian's other significant literary achievements were his English translations of two of Franz Delitzsch's commentaries. The nearly 4,000 entries cover material from Aaron to Zuzims!Wikipedia
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