What is the Point and Goal of Life According to Christianity?
Life is filled with questions of purpose, meaning, and identity. As Christians, we find our answers rooted in the Bible, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and our relationship with God. The goal and point of life, according to the Christian faith, is far greater than personal fullfillment, success, or pleasure; it is centered on glorifying God, living in communion with Him, and fulfilling His purpose for humanity.
1. To Glorify God
At the heart of the Christian life is the call to glorify God. Scripture teaches that everything in creation exists to display the beauty, power, and majesty of God. As human beings, we are created in His image (Genesis 1:26-27), which means we have the unique ability to reflect His character and nature in our lives.
The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:31:
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
Glorifying God means living in a way that honors Him, acknowledging His sovereignty, and pointing others to His goodness. Whether through worship, our work, relationships, or everyday choices, Christians are called to be a light in the world, magnifying God's love and truth.
2. To Love God and Love Others
When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He responded:
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:37-39)
Loving God is central to the Christian life. To love God means to prioritize Him above all else and seek Him with all our hearts.
Loving others flows naturally from loving God. Jesus emphasized that serving, forgiving, and showing compassion to others are expressions of His love in us. Christians are called to treat others with dignity, kindness, and grace, embodying the love of Christ to the world.
3. To Share the Gospel
Jesus gave His followers a clear mission before ascending into heaven. Known as the Great Commission, He said:
"Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:19-20)
Sharing the gospel—the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ—is a core part of the Christian life. God desires for all people to know Him and be reconciled to Him. Christians are called to share their faith boldly and lovingly, serving as witnesses to the transformative power of Christ.
4. To Experience Eternal Life with God
The ultimate goal of life for a Christian goes beyond this world. While life on earth is temporary, God promises eternal life to those who put their faith in Jesus. In John 17:3, Jesus says:
"Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent."
Eternal life is not just about living forever; it is about knowing God intimately and enjoying His presence for eternity. This hope gives Christians purpose and perspective, reminding us that this life is a preparation for the life to come.
Conclusion: Living with Purpose
The goal and point of life as a Christian is clear: to glorify God, love Him and others, share the gospel, and live with the hope of eternity. This purpose gives life meaning beyond temporary successes or pleasures. By living for God, Christians find fulfillment, peace, and joy that transcends circumstances.
The Christian life is not without challenges, but it is a life filled with hope and purpose. As we walk in faith, trusting in God's plan, we experience the deep satisfaction of living for something far greater than ourselves—for the glory of God and His eternal kingdom.