There's a theme which runs throughout Scripture - a theme of redemption to eternal life. Today in John 3.35-36 we have a summary of this. First Jesus proclaims that the Father has given everything to the Son. Jesus holds the power of redemption and the power of condemnation. Salvation is of the Lord and it is through Jesus. So how is this salvation manifested? This is the second proclamation Jesus makes. Eternal life is through belief in the Son, Jesus. Notice carefully what Jesus says belief is. See the parallel statements? In the English Standard Version they show up very clearly.
"Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life;
whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life..."
There's a stark contrast made here. And surprisingly enough it is between belief and disobedience. Belief is obedience. Disobedience leaves us under God's wrath. Belief, its opposite, keeps us in eternal life.
How do we obey? Believe.
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