Discovering the True Path to Divine Life in Christ
Living Water and the Call to Another Life
When we encounter the words of Jesus—“Those who drink of the water that I will give them will never again be thirsty… it will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life”—we are invited into an existence that transcends our ordinary experience. The New Testament, especially the Gospels and letters like Ephesians and 1 Peter, present a vision of a divine realm—a life in the “kingdom of the heavens”—that is both accessible and astonishing.
This spiritual world isn’t reserved for a select few. Ordinary individuals, past and present, are called to enter this life and experience its promises. Scripture assures us that, through confidence in Jesus, we receive “living water”—God’s own Spirit—who satisfies our deepest longings and transforms us from within. This inner spring is not just for our benefit; it becomes a source of life and hope for others (John 7:38).
Paul prays that believers would “know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge,” so that we “may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:19-20). Peter describes the result as “indescribable and glorious joy” (1 Peter 1:8), genuine mutual love, freedom from malice and deceit, and the ability to cast all anxiety on God who cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).
The Challenge and the Hope
Although the New Testament’s vision is clear, many of us struggle to truly enter into this divine life. We may be faithful in outward religious practice but find that the reality described in Scripture feels foreign and unattainable. This gap can discourage us, making the promises seem out of reach.
But the reason isn’t that God’s invitation is a puzzle meant to confound us. Instead, it’s often that we miss the way in. Spiritual transformation—the process of becoming like Christ—is not automatic, nor is it simply a matter of willpower. It requires understanding and participating in the means God has provided, as revealed in the life and teachings of Jesus.
Jesus invites us to leave behind burdensome and exhausting attempts at religion, and to enter a relationship of gentle learning and rest with him (Matthew 11:28-30). Real transformation happens as we take small, faithful steps on this journey. God works through these means to bring about the inner renewal we most need.
Accessible to All
This is the good news: no one needs to live in spiritual defeat. In Christ, the obstacles to new life can be overcome. We are called to put off the old self and put on the new, walking more and more in wholeness, holiness, and the power of the kingdom of heaven.
For Christian communities, this means that fulfilling Jesus’ calling—to be a people who touch heaven and earth—is not about special programs, talents, or resources. It’s about faithfully engaging the process of spiritual formation in Christlikeness, as outlined in Scripture and demonstrated through the lives of believers throughout history.
The water Jesus gives truly becomes a spring within us, overflowing with life—not only for ourselves, but for a thirsty world.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025