What does it mean to be “immortal? In Greek mythology, Zeus, Athena and Apollo were among their immortal gods, those who lived forever and had powerful influence over the mortal world. When someone achieves extraordinary levels of greatness in their field, they are often spoken of as being immortal. In American baseball, Babe Ruth and Willie Mays are “immortalized” by the way they played the game. These examples show us that immortality can be applied to mean someone or something as never dying, be it in a physical or an intellectual sense. So, how does the Bible define immortality? As we explore this question, we will see a clear and focused reasoning emerge that elevates what immortality is and who will have it.
Immortality: Inherent or a gift?
Exploring the biblical concept of immortality requires focusing on its New Testament definition and implications. The Bible defines immortality as the inability to die or decay. This meaning is derived from two Greek words: athanasia (deathlessness) and aphthartos (incorruptibility). The Apostle Paul’s writings, especially 1 Corinthians 15, describe how humanity must transform from mortal (liable to die) and corruptible (subject to decay) to immortal and incorruptible in order to inherit the heavenly kingdom of God.

These findings clearly indicate that immortality is not an inherent human trait. Rather, it is a rare gift from God. It is given only to faithful followers of Christ who demonstrate self-sacrifice, discipline and obedience to God’s truth. Therefore, achieving immortality requires a life dedicated to spiritual growth and living by God’s will.
So, what about everyone else who has ever lived?
These masses of people are offered eternal life—a perpetual existence reliant on God’s sustenance. Eternal life allows for the possibility of death if one strays, whereas immortality ensures complete deathlessness. The resurrection and Day of Judgment play crucial roles in offering eternal life to humanity.

God’s ultimate plan ensures eternal harmony between spiritual and earthly creations, with immortality reserved for a select few who serve as reconcilers. Understanding these levels of existence helps us appreciate God’s power, love, justice and wisdom in a deeper way.

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