Love so True!

“This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. John 3:16‭ MSG

A very familiar passage, but one requiring a fresh perspective. Some very fundamental questions emanate from this passage, with fundamental responses also. However, only 1 may be considered. A decision will then be made based on the conclusions at the end of this piece.

That major question is: who is showing the love, to whom and why? Consider the fact that God really didn't owe us anything. He had given clear instructions on how to live and enjoy his favour, but we chose our own path. The natural consequence was punishment- death. So, I ask: what did God see in the world that made him pay such a high price for our redemption? I believe God's nature is the factor here, not our response. If God were to deal with us based on our responses to him, it is not likely that anyone would be saved. He is love personified; not because we are lovable, but because he is love himself.

Check out what he gave: a whole life. He did this to redeem our own lives too, and he placed a demand of loyalty and commitment on us. The reason for the gift is also stated: so that we may not be destroyed, but may enjoy life. This is the foundation of true life. You really don't live until you have the One called Life himself. No matter how enlightened or educated you may be, let it be known: we will all give account of the foundation. God's standard is that I must go through the one he has introduced as Life, if indeed I must enjoy all he has on offer.

Nothing else will work, and God does not change his mind or lower his standards for anyone. I must make that decision; my eternity depends on it. His time of favour is here.