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God’s Love

John 3:16&17
16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.

Last week we studied Psalm 23 verse by verse. Written by King David, it draws on his own experiences as a shepherd to portray God as a loving guide who provides, protects, and comforts. It moves from peaceful provision (green pastures, still waters) through God's presence in danger (the valley of the shadow of death) to Him as a generous host. It closes with the confident promise that goodness and mercy will pursue us all our days, culminating in eternal dwelling with God. These themes—trust, divine care, and spiritual security—explain the psalm's timeless appeal to us.

Today we continue exploring God's presence with us, turning to one of Scripture's most famous passages: John 3:16. Most Christians know it by heart. I challenge us to memorize verse 17 as well—it's the "But wait, there's more!" verse.

Don't overlook the opening of verse 16: God's love is the foundation of salvation. He took the initiative by giving His only Son so that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life rather than perish. Salvation begins with His love, not our effort.

Verse 17 clarifies Jesus' mission: He came not to condemn but to save. The world was already under condemnation because of sin (see John 3:18), so Christ's first coming was for rescue, not judgment.

We love these verses because they reveal God's love—not just as feeling, but as profound action in giving His Son.

"The world" means all humanity, not just Israel, showing God's inclusive grace. Salvation is open to "whoever believes," emphasizing personal faith—a gift of the Holy Spirit.

For bonus insight: Condemnation comes from unbelief, not from Christ's purpose (John 3:18).
Spend time with these verses. Weave them into your daily life—they will bless you always.
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