1:2 Why do we yet hope for eternal life if it is a present possession?
1:2 Why do we yet hope for eternal life if it is a present possession?
(cp Jn 3:16, 36; 5:24; 10:27-29). Eternal life is a present possession but it is not unforfeitable - it only becomes an unforfeitable possession for those sowing to the spirit at the end of their earthly life (cp 1Cor 1:18).
Until then it is our hope (cp 1Ti 1:1; Tit 3:7). The promise of eternal life is conditional upon remaining in Christ (cp Jn 6:27; 15:1-6; 1 Jn 5:11-13).
This clearly refutes the teaching by some in the church that once saved, means always saved (see also comments on Jn 10:27-29, 1Cor 1:18, 10:1-5, Php 2:12-13, He 6:4-6, 10:26-31, 2Pe 2:20-22).