How would we answer the question: 'What must I do to inherit eternal life?'

In Jesus' day, it was to keep the Law. But now there is a new, much better covenant, brought about by Jesus' crucifixion and atonement for sin. The role of God's Law is that of a moral compass, teaching right and wrong. Because we love Jesus, we want to obey his commands.

But here are some misconceptions:

1. Non-Christians often believe that you will be OK if your good deeds outweigh your bad deeds. This is not Christian teaching - good deeds are not a way of salvation.
2. If you tick all the right boxes as far as belief is concerned you are guaranteed entry to heaven. It is good to have the right faith and avoid false belief. Entry to heaven is not based on a theology test, but there is no excuse for intellectual laziness.

The theme immediately before this passage stresses the need to persevere.
None of us is righteous, but God has provided a way of salvation by faith.

Faith is to do with reacting positively to what God has shown us. It is to do with accepting what Jesus has promised.

The heroes of faith knew nothing about the work of Jesus, but anticipated it. Though they trusted in God, they, like we, were flawed people. It is faith in Jesus that enables us to inherit eternal life.