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.
What does John 3:16 mean?
This verse says why salvation is possible at all. God loved the world enough to give his Son.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside John 3:16-17 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on John 3:16
For God so loved - This does not mean that God approved the conduct of men, but that he had benevolent feelings toward them, or was "earnestly desirous" of their happiness. God hates wickedness, but he still desires the Happiness of those who are sinful. "He hates the sin, but loves the sinner." A parent may love his child and desire his welfare, and yet be strongly opposed to the conduct of that child. When we approve the conduct of another, this is the love of complacency; when we desire simply their happiness, this is the love of benevolence. The world - All mankind.
Key words
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For God so loved the world,.
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For God so loved the world,.
Context in John 3
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John 3 belongs to the early movement of the book, especially the section often described as prologue and book of signs. John presents Jesus in contemplative, symbolic, and theological richness as the Word, Lamb, Light, Bread, Shepherd, Resurrection, Way, Vine, and Son. Read this chapter with the wider themes of incarnation, life, and light in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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Who quoted John 3:16?
Find out who used John 3:16 in their speeches and writings. Which famous people quoted John 3:16?
Quotes found on Wikiquote (match for «John 3:16»):
Bo Burnham · Ken Ham · King of the Ring · Missional · RiffTrax · Rousas John Rushdoony