When do believers experience eternal life?
According to the context, eternal life is experienced immediately upon believing the Gospel. It is not delayed until after death; the moment one believes, they possess this eternal life, which is tied to the doctrine of resurrection and the unique Christian belief that life continues beyond the grave.
Les explains that this entire chapter deals with resurrection, which is unique to Christianity. He stresses that resurrection is not merely being brought back to life like Lazarus, but a permanent transformation. He says the eternal life believers experience is the same eternal life that Christ obtained through His resurrection, and it begins the moment they believe the Gospel.
But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come?
More Questions
How can believers enjoy eternal life?
The only way believers can enjoy eternal existence is to experience a Biblical resurrection.