John 3:16 is one of the most well-known scriptures.  Even those who are not followers of Jesus have probably heard the reference to John 3:16. But few recognize the hope and the judgment that is communicated through this passage.  What is interesting about this passage is how John provides a commentary beginning in verse 16 of the story about Nicodemus.  Notice at this point, John is referring to Jesus after His death and resurrection.  And he is summarizing the importance of being born again by believing in Jesus Christ.

When John states that God loved the world, it proclaimed a powerful statement.  It was not common for Jews to think of God’s love outside of Israel.  It was a Christian concept that God’s love extended beyond the limits of race and nationality.  It is also not saying that God loved the earth.  Instead, it describes a love of redemption and rescue for all of humanity.  Jesus did not enter this world to save a select few.  He came to redeem those who lived in darkness and needed to be rescued from their sin.  

This verse is powerful because it provides us a promise of hope.  That as a creation of God, we are loved so much that God would sacrifice His Son for our lives.  But notice that it is also a verse of judgment.  The passage goes on to say that Jesus entered this world to save us, but those who reject Him condemn themselves.  Those who are willing to allow the light to expose their sins and repent, are saved when they believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  But those who prefer to stay in the darkness and love the world of selfishness and self-empowerment will be judged through their unbelief. 

This verse provides us a view for how we are to see the world.  We need to recognize that all people are loved by God and need His salvation.  But we also need to recognize that we cannot control their choices.  God provides the opportunity; the question is if they are willing to respond to His love and believe?

Read John 3:1-21