Sermon – Eternal Life is Knowing the One True God and Jesus Christ. (John 17:1-11) – May 19, 2026

The expression “eternal life” or “endless life,” contrary to what a modern reader might initially think, does not simply refer to life after death. Nor is it simply the opposite of the temporary present life. “Eternal life” refers to life itself, that is, real life. This life can be lived in the present and cannot be terminated by physical death.

Indeed, the Lord said to Martha: “He who lives and believes in me will never die” (John 11:25-26). Therefore, as Benedict XVI stated, the first Christians called themselves “the living,” because they had found what everyone seeks: life itself, full life, and therefore indestructible life.

What does " to know " mean?

The concept of "knowing" in the Old Testament presupposes a knowledge that creates unity. This knowledge does not mean establishing an external and distant relationship with the known, but rather entering into a deep unity with it. Therefore, "eternal life" is a relational event.

In this context, "to know" in the Semitic worldview signifies an intimate union and closeness. Therefore, "to know God" cannot be reduced to a mere intellectual act; it means to be in a state of genuine unity and intimacy with God.

This unity requires the unity of love and opens in two directions: knowing “You, the one true God” and “Jesus Christ, whom You sent.” The first points to the mystery of God, that is, the knowledge of the mystery of the Trinity. At this point, the Evangelist speaks with great caution. He does not say “You, the one true God”; he says “You, the one true God.” Here, the word “one” is not directed to the logical subject, that is, “you,” but to the predicate, that is, the expression “true God.” Therefore, the word “one” excludes the plurality of gods; however, it does not exclude the plurality of persons in God.

The second refers to the entire work of the Son's Incarnation. Jesus explicitly uses the phrase "the one you sent." This phrase indicates, on the one hand, that Jesus is the Messiah; and on the other hand, that the one who is the Messiah is Jesus.