The Good News – John 3:16 – declares God’s agape love for mankind and His sweet invitation for a relationship with Jesus Christ and Himself.
There are some favorite red letters in the Bible for many Christians and John 3:16 is one of them. A verse found in a chapter where Jesus is explaining to Nicodemus the way to be born again. A new birth not brought on by the plan of man, but by the wisdom of God. Truly, everyone who believes in the Son of Man, Jesus Christ, will have eternal life. For all who call on the name of the Lord will be saved.
God sent Jesus into this world, born of a virgin, to save the world – not to condemn it. As John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse showcases God’s agape love for mankind. A love that is everlasting. A love that promises heaven for all who believe. A love that invites a loving response, as we walk this earth. A love that clearly states there is hope for the repentant.
Mankind’s sin separates them from God, and the wages of sin is death; but the gift of the Good News is that God sent His only Son to walk this earth perfect and to die on the cross for our sins. Jesus took the penalty for our sins upon Himself, but He didn’t stay dead. Jesus rose again on the third day. He is alive and is now seated at the right hand of God in heaven. Jesus stood in the gap for you, providing a way for you to stand justified in God’s sight, just as if you never sinned. This is God’s love for you.
The cross declares 1 John 1:9 NKJV – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” When we realize we are sinners, and recognize that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins, and repent of our sins, and receive Christ into our heart as our Lord and Savior we are saved and born again.
The Good News – John 3:16 – Declares God’s Love to All Around You
Countless times we fail to realize how many people read the fine print on what we wear. We pass by many, and stand in lines. People read it!
When we realize our article of clothing may reach more than we even know, in Jesus’ name, as it declares the truth of God, it gives us a sense of purpose. Someone may be encouraged today without us even saying a word. Now, words are good, as are smiles. But this talking piece invites a conversation with those who may have questions.
The Bible says in the verse, 2 Corinthians 6:2, “Today is the day of salvation.” That means on any given day God is telling people that He loves them and is inviting them into a relationship with Himself through belief in Jesus Christ, His Son. For Jesus “is the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Him” – John 14:6. When people see John 3:16 on what we wear, it either opens their eyes for the first time to God’s love, or reminds them of what they know, or encourages them during a trying moment. Share the love!