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. John 3:16 KJV
In a few famous words, the sixteenth verse of the third chapter of John’s gospel reveals God’s love for sinful humanity, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, salvation from sin through faith, and the promise of everlasting life. The message is simple. God loves mankind so much that he sent his Son to pay the price for our sins. The faithful who answer Christ’s call to repent from sin in obedience to God share in his resurrection and receive everlasting life.
Scripture reveals God’s displeasure with sinfulness along with his love, mercy, and grace to forgive the repentant. We read in Isaiah 54:8, “In a surge of anger I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you,” says the LORD your Redeemer. NIV” Sin displeases God and yet his strong desire is for mercy and reconciliation.
Although sin is deadly serious, God prefers redemption to condemnation. As Paul wrote in Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. WEB” Also, we read of God’s grace in 1 John 1:9 which says of God, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. WEB”
Because Jesus Lives
While preparing his disciples for his death and subsequent resurrection, Jesus hinted at everlasting life for believers. The Lord said in John 14:19, ‘Yet a little while, and the world will see me no more; but you will see me. Because I live, you will live also. WEB” After dying on the cross and spending three days in the tomb, Christ rose from the dead. An angel said to the two Mary’s in Matthew 28:6, “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. KJV”
In repentance from sin, we share in Jesus’ death, dying to the flesh and coming alive in the Spirit of God. Sharing in his death, we also share in his resurrection. Our hope in everlasting life comes directly from our faith in the risen Christ. But, it is the love of God that makes everlasting life possible.
Throughout the ages, the love of God has drawn men to his service. As we read in Jeremiah 31:3, “The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. KJV” God’s love is eternally captivating. As he drew the ancient Israelites to himself with lovingkindness, our heavenly Father draws us near through the lovingkindness of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the gift of salvation through faith in Christ. Thank you for making a way for me to experience everlasting life with you in heaven. Guide me to do your will with my life. Help me to serve your purpose. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Second Death
