“Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.”  John 3:18

 Does anyone know John 3:18 by heart?  It seems that everyone, even non-Christians, has at least heard of John 3:16, as it is routinely seen on signs, shirts, and other items and is probably one of the best known verses in the Bible.  I doubt too many know the verses following, though.  I suppose it is a bit like being the relative of a movie star, in that everyone might recognize the last name, but no one recognizes you. 

 However, this verse is every bit as important as its more well-known relative, and sums up the core of what we believe in very simple terms.  We are saved by believing in Jesus, not by any good intentions or good works, and there is no trick or catch involved.  The clear choice set out in John is that you believe and are saved, or don’t believe and stand condemned.  This should be of great comfort to us as it isn’t complex theology or difficult tasks that are required, but simple belief.  What a gracious God we have who makes things so clear for us!  Let us all go and make John 3:18 just as well known as its famous ‘relative’.

We praise You, Lord God, for putting no obstacle in the way of faith and pray that more and more people would come to believe Your amazing truth.  Amen.