John 3:16: 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

from Holy Bible (KJV) – John 3 on Rap Genius

This is one of the most famous passages in all of Scripture, cited so many times in society that it seems to have lost its original potency.

With regards to the meaning of the passage itself, some have insisted that God sent Jesus to die for the purpose of bringing salvation to everyone without exception, but only as a possibility.

However, Jesus makes clear that the salvation of those whom the Father “gives me,” and only those, is not a mere possibility but an absolute certainty; “will come to me” (John 6:37–40; John 10:14–18; John 17:9).

The point made by “the world” is that Christ’s saving work is not limited to one time or place but applies to the elect from all over the world. Those who do not receive the remedy God has provided in Christ will perish.

It remains true that anyone who believes will not die (be separated from God) but live in God’s presence forever.

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