The correct answer is true.
It is true that Eternal life is earned by merit.
According to many religions, Christianity included, people or their followers have to be correct, do good deeds, help the poor, forgive their enemies, and pray for the world in order to get salvation. Some religions consider that there is indeed an eternal life in heaven, and to be able to access this place, you have to do good, avoid evil and live according to the religious principles.