Abstract
D.Litt. et Phil.
The important problem encountered was to render a representative and reliable summary
account of the vast subject of the meaning of life according to the entire Old and New
Testaments in such a way that a proper synthesis thereof could be given within the sphere of one
introductory chapter (Chapter 2).
The major method implemented in the main part of the thesis was as follows. Firstly, all the
passages/verses in which the Johannine terms for life and eternal life (Greek: rdytj and Mil
ait'ovtog) occur in the Gospel of John and in 1 John, were exegeted within their respective
immediate and broader contexts. Secondly, the most important nuances of the meaning and
experience of eternal life according to the Johannine perspective, were defined, as they became
apparent from such exegesis in each particular instance. This procedure was followed by a
proper synthesis of the said definitions in order to gain a representative overall picture of the
principal descriptions of the two relevant aspects. Eventually the practical applications and
consequences for the praxis of the Christian church and the individual believer in our
contemporary society flowing from the above-mentioned findings, were spelt out in a final
chapter.
The enriching results flowing from the implementation of the above-mentioned
methods/procedure include the profound insights gained with regard to the depth and richness
of the meaning of eternal life from the perspective of the two relevant aspects thereof, as well
as the implications thereof for the proper, Scriptural ways in which the abundance of this life
can be experienced by all Christians. Lastly, the challenging ways in which the contemporary
church and the individual Christian can demonstrate this life in our modern society for the
advancement of God's spiritual kingdom on earth, also became apparent.
Amongst the most important characteristics of eternal life, as well as the appropriate
consequences of its actualisation in and through God's children which came to the fore, are the
following. Eternal life is a spiritual category/dimension of life. It is God's own, unique life. This
life will be experienced fully when Christ returns.