I think you’ll agree, John 3:16 is the most identifiable Biblical quotation. It pops up on billboards, is spray painted on bridges, held up on signs at sporting events, and written below Tim Tebow’s eyes. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Good news, indeed, but, are you familiar with the verse that follows it? “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” Isn’t that amazing! The world has the perception that God is a mean, old man, forever zapping people with disease, tragedy and poverty, constantly condemning us for that same old original sin. Some Christians hold the same opinion. We hear verse 16, and sort of believe, but feel there has to be a catch. “God is always going to be on me for my old ways”, they lament. God wants us to believe in Jesus, really, truly, sold out believe, with all our heart, mind, body and spirit. He won’t force us into that decision, nor did he send his son to guilt us into it. That’s not how he operates. Do you remember any verses where Jesus threatens people into believing? Just the opposite. He told the woman caught in adultery, a crime punishable by death, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” John 8:11. I think she became a believer that day, not motivated by fear, but because of the great love and compassion Jesus showed her. His offer still stands, condemnation Free… Believe it!
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