THE HUMAN QUEST OF IMMORTALITY

THE HUMAN QUEST FOR IMMORTALITY

Introduction:

Throughout history, many have pursued the idea of extending life or achieving immortality, but no one has ever succeeded in creating a medicine or technology that grants eternal life. The concept of immortality has fascinated people for millennia, from ancient mythologies to modern science.

Ancient Myths and Legends:

Cultures around the world, including the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Chinese, had myths about immortality. For example, the Chinese emperor Qin Shi Huang sought an elixir of life, but instead, many believe he died from consuming mercury, which was mistakenly thought to have life-prolonging properties.

Alchemists' Quest:

During the Middle Ages, European alchemists sought the "Philosopher's Stone," a mythical substance believed to grant immortality and turn metals into gold. This search was a symbolic and literal effort to extend life.

Modern Science:

In the modern era, fields like gerontology (the study of aging) and biotechnology have explored ways to extend human life. Advances in medicine, genetics, and nanotechnology have increased life expectancy and offered insights into the aging process, but the goal of achieving eternal life remains elusive. Some researchers are investigating ways to reverse aging, such as through cell regeneration or telomere manipulation, but these are still in experimental stages.

From a Christian perspective, eternal life is seen as a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ, not something humans can achieve through scientific or medical means (John 3:16, Romans 6:23). The Bible teaches that while earthly life is temporary, eternal life is promised in the spiritual realm.

So, while the idea of living forever has inspired countless efforts, no one has succeeded in creating a medicine that grants eternal life.

The Divine Appointment: Understanding Life’s Finite Nature Through Hebrews 9:27

In a world that often encourages us to seek ways to prolong life or avoid the thought of death, Hebrews 9:27 reminds us of an unchangeable truth: life has a divine appointment set by God. This verse does not simply declare that death is inevitable but highlights a deeper reality—that our days are numbered by God Himself. Our time on earth will come to an end, not by accident or chance, but by God’s sovereign plan.

1. The Certainty of the Appointment

The phrase "it is appointed unto men once to die" carries a weight of certainty. It speaks of a specific time set for every individual. We don’t know when that moment will come, but it is sure to arrive. The human quest to achieve immortality, whether through technology, medicine, or legacy, cannot change this divine truth.

Psalm 139:16 tells us, “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” God has already marked the day and time when our earthly life will conclude.

Reflecting on this gives us a clear sense that our life is under God’s control. We may try to extend it, but the appointment is set, reminding us of the brevity and preciousness of life.

2. Life is a Stewardship

If God has set the time for our departure, then every moment we have is a gift, a stewardship for which we are accountable. Ephesians 5:15-16 encourages us to “be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” The knowledge that life will end should inspire us to live wisely, making the best use of our time for God's glory.

We often take life for granted, but when we acknowledge our divine appointment with God, it pushes us to focus on what truly matters: our relationship with Him, our service to others, and fulfilling His purposes.

3. After This, the Judgment

The second part of the verse says, "but after this the judgment." This is a sobering reminder that death is not the end. Our lives will be reviewed by God, and what we did with the time we were given will matter for eternity.

Ecclesiastes 12:14 says, “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” This reinforces the need to live intentionally, knowing that after our divine appointment with death, we will face God and give an account of our lives.

This is also where the grace of God in Christ comes into play. While judgment is certain, Christ has offered salvation, and eternal life is promised to those who place their faith in Him. Romans 6:23 tells us that “the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” While we all have an appointment with death, we also have the opportunity to receive eternal life through Jesus.

4. Living with Eternity in View

Understanding our divine appointment should change the way we live today. Instead of fearing death, we can live in peace, knowing that God has set the time for our transition from this life to the next. This life is temporary, but eternal life awaits us through Christ. Our focus should not be on avoiding death but on fulfilling the purpose God has for us while we are here.

2 Corinthians 5:1 reassures us that “if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.” This eternal perspective allows us to live with hope and purpose, knowing that our true home is with God.

Conclusion

"The Divine Appointment" teaches us that life is fragile and fleeting, but it is also in God’s hands. Our days are numbered by His perfect wisdom, and we have the opportunity to live each day in a way that honors Him. Rather than pursuing endless life through human means, let us seek eternal life through faith in Christ, who conquered death for us. Let us live with purpose, recognizing that our divine appointment is set, and after that comes eternity with God.

As you reflect on Hebrews 9:27, may it remind you that while we cannot escape death, we can face it with the assurance of eternal life through Jesus. Our focus should be on the things that matter most—our relationship with God and the legacy we leave for His glory.

This expanded message on Hebrews 9:27 under the theme "The Divine Appointment" can encourage readers to acknowledge the reality of death, live intentionally, and place their hope in God's eternal promises.

Pastor John U. Ordillo