God So Loved

"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). This is far from the only passage that reflects the great love that God has displayed and possesses. Still, it is the most familiar among people. A reason for this is the boldness of this proclamation and the magnitude that it truly amplifies. This statement of God's love says some powerful and irreplaceable things.

For example, this is a statement on God's love being global. In this verse, we are reminded of God being the origin of love [for God] and, from there, in an overflowing fashion [so loved], outpouring that great gift on the worst of all [the world]. Romans 5:8 attest to the love of God, speaking of how we were yet sinners; Christ died for us. There was a debt, and with every person, that debt grew; the only redeeming payment was His Son.

Alongside the global aspect of God's love is the sacrificial element. Look at the magnitude of this sacrifice! Note that it was given willingly [that He gave], not just willingly, but also expensively [His Son], and above that, not just expensively, unsparingly [His only begotten Son]. The Father spared no expense in redeeming vile mankind from their sins because He longs for their salvation (1 Tim 2:4). Because of the great longing of the Father came the great offering of the Son (2 Cor 5:21).

In step with the other great qualities shown about God's love is how bountifully He showed it. He gave without partiality [whoever], to protect [should not perish] and to prosper [have everlasting life]. God's great gift was provided to benefit the devout (Acts 10:2) and the most vile of sinners (1 Tim 1:15).

What a great passage to remember as we battle and are fatigued. We have a Father above who honestly does look down in love, love evident in sending His Son for you and I.