In Mormonism, eternal life means far more than simply living forever. It is defined as living in God’s presence, sharing his glory, and becoming like him. Eternal life is often used interchangeably with exaltation, the highest level of salvation available in the Celestial Kingdom.
To receive eternal life, a person must have faith in Jesus Christ, receive the required ordinances (such as baptism, endowment, and sealing), and remain faithful to covenants through obedience. It represents not just existence after death, but the ultimate reward of eternal progression and family unity.
Historically, biblical Christianity has used the phrase eternal life to describe the gift of salvation given freely through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from works, as the present and future reality of being reconciled to God.