In John 10:10, Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (ESV). Unlike a thief, the Lord Jesus does not come for selfish reasons. He comes to give, not to get. He comes that people may have life in Him that is meaningful, purposeful, joyful, and eternal. We receive this abundant life the moment we accept Him as our Savior.

 

This abundant life is spiritual, not material. It is concerned with a relationship with God. It is a constant process of learning, practicing, and nurturing, as well as failing, recovering, adjusting, enduring, and overcoming.

 

Additional scriptures referenced include John 9:40; John 10:1-9, 11-18; John 14:6; John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:20; 1 Corinthians 1:26-29; Matthew 8:20; John 17:3; Matthew 6:25-32; Philippians 4:19; Ecclesiastes 5:10-15; Philippians 4:11-12; 1 John 5:11-13; 2 Peter 3:18; 1 Corinthians 13:12; Genesis 3:5; Matthew 5:20; John 6:47; Matthew 3:7; Matthew 12:34; Matthew 23:33; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:22-23; and Colossians 3:2-3.