What is the meaning of life?

1. Summary of the Question

The question, “What is the meaning of life?” is a profound inquiry that has been asked throughout human history. From a biblical perspective, this question is answered by understanding God’s purpose for creation and His desire for a relationship with humanity. The Bible teaches that life’s meaning is found in knowing, loving, and glorifying God, as well as fulfilling His purposes on earth. This answer will explore the biblical context, foundational scriptures, different interpretations, and practical applications of this understanding.

2. Context and Background

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To understand the meaning of life from a biblical perspective, it is crucial to consider the historical, cultural, and literary context of the Bible. The Bible is not just a collection of religious writings but a unified story that reveals God’s nature, His relationship with humanity, and His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.

The question of life’s meaning is addressed throughout both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, the wisdom literature, particularly the books of Ecclesiastes and Proverbs, grapples with the purpose and fulfillment of life. Ecclesiastes, for example, examines the futility of a life lived without God and concludes that true meaning is found in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

In the New Testament, the life and teachings of Jesus Christ provide the ultimate revelation of God’s purpose for humanity. Jesus teaches that the greatest commandments are to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-40), emphasizing that a meaningful life is one rooted in relationship with God and selfless love.

3. Biblical Foundation (NASB 2020)

Several key scriptures in the NASB 2020 translation provide a biblical foundation for understanding the meaning of life:

• Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NASB 2020): “The conclusion, when everything has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person.”
  The writer of Ecclesiastes, after exploring various pursuits and philosophies, concludes that the purpose of life is to live in reverence and obedience to God. This is the fundamental duty of every person.
• Matthew 22:37-40 (NASB 2020): “And He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets.”
  Jesus teaches that the essence of life is to love God fully and love others as oneself. This dual command encapsulates the purpose and meaning of human existence.
• John 17:3 (NASB 2020): “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”
  Jesus defines eternal life as knowing God and Himself. The relational aspect of knowing God is central to finding true meaning and fulfillment.
• Colossians 1:16 (NASB 2020): “For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.”
  Paul emphasizes that everything, including human life, was created by and for God. This underscores that life’s ultimate purpose is found in glorifying God.
• Micah 6:8 (NASB 2020): “He has told you, mortal one, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
  This verse summarizes a life lived in alignment with God’s will: pursuing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with Him.

These scriptures collectively teach that the meaning of life is found in a relationship with God, loving Him and others, and living in obedience to His will.

4. Addressing Other Perspectives

There are various interpretations and perspectives on the meaning of life:

1. Secular Humanism: This worldview suggests that life’s meaning is subjective and can be determined by each individual. It emphasizes human reason, ethics, and self-fulfillment without reference to a divine being. However, from a biblical standpoint, meaning is not self-derived but found in God’s purpose and design.
2. Existentialism: This philosophy claims that life has no inherent meaning and that individuals must create their own purpose through choices and actions. In contrast, Christianity teaches that purpose is not created but discovered in God’s revealed will.
3. Pantheism and New Age Beliefs: These perspectives often view life’s purpose as achieving enlightenment or becoming one with a universal consciousness. However, the biblical perspective is distinct in that it emphasizes a personal relationship with a personal God who is separate from His creation.
4. Materialism: The belief that life is about acquiring wealth, status, or pleasure. Ecclesiastes addresses the futility of such pursuits without God, demonstrating that material success cannot provide lasting meaning or satisfaction (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).

The biblical perspective, as outlined above, presents a coherent and fulfilling understanding of life’s meaning rooted in a relationship with God and His divine purpose.

5. Clarifying Misunderstandings

A common misconception is that the meaning of life in Christianity is solely about following rules or religious rituals. However, the Bible teaches that life’s meaning is relational, rooted in knowing and loving God. Obedience to God’s commands is a natural outflow of a loving relationship with Him, not a burdensome obligation (1 John 5:3).

Another misunderstanding is that Christianity offers a narrow or exclusive view of life’s meaning. While Christianity does present a unique perspective, it is based on the belief that God, as the Creator, knows the ultimate purpose of His creation. The invitation to find meaning in Him is open to all (John 3:16).

6. Practical Application and Relevance

Understanding the biblical meaning of life has significant implications for how Christians live:

• Living with Purpose: Christians are called to live intentionally, focusing on knowing God, loving others, and fulfilling God’s purposes in their lives. This perspective provides clarity and direction amid life’s challenges and uncertainties (Ephesians 2:10).
• Finding Fulfillment in God: True fulfillment is found not in material possessions or achievements but in a relationship with God. Christians are encouraged to seek God first and trust that everything else will fall into place (Matthew 6:33).
• Reflecting God’s Character: The Bible calls Christians to live out God’s love, justice, and mercy in their daily lives. This involves being a light to others, advocating for justice, showing compassion, and walking humbly with God (Matthew 5:16).

Practical reflections for Christians include:

• Deepen Your Relationship with God: Spend time in prayer, Bible study, and worship to grow closer to God and understand His will for your life.
• Serve Others: Look for opportunities to love and serve others, reflecting the character of Christ in your community and relationships.
• Live with Eternal Perspective: Remember that earthly life is temporary and that ultimate meaning is found in eternal life with God. Let this perspective guide your choices and priorities.

7. Encouragement and Conclusion

The Bible teaches that the meaning of life is found in knowing, loving, and glorifying God, as well as fulfilling His purposes on earth. This understanding offers a coherent and fulfilling perspective that provides purpose, direction, and hope. Believers are encouraged to deepen their relationship with God, live out His love and justice, and find their ultimate fulfillment in Him. As we align our lives with God’s will, loving what He loves and rejecting what He hates, we discover the true meaning and purpose of our existence, living faithfully and joyfully in His grace.