November 2021
John 3:16
As Christians, we need to move beyond John 3:16. As I write the previous sentence, I feel a bit queasy. At first, the sentence appears heretical and a complete trashing of the cross. However, I do not apologize for writing it, if it gets your attention. I wholeheartedly endorse the gospel of Jesus Christ and proclaim that Jesus is the only one coming to our rescue. However, there is time in our journey where we will need to begin to move beyond John 3:16.
The sentence is not suggesting a removal of the truth of why Jesus (God) came, or of his death and resurrection. The sentence in no way dismisses the forgiveness of sins by the blood of Christ and how we are now made right before a Holy God. Still, Christians need to move beyond John 3:16.
For over a year, I have been pondering a biblical theme that goes something like this: In the forgiveness of sins God not only saves our soul (John 3:16) for all eternity, but He also puts the Holy Spirit in us (Romans 6:3- 14). Therefore, believers’ lives should change and look differently over time. Consequently, why do believers expect those who do not believe to act like those who believe?
So, I get it. A Christian’s life is a journey of ups and downs, and constant temptations. God is not surprised; look at the experience He had with Israel and look at our own lives. God, who has given us the power of the Holy Spirit, has expectations for those who have been redeemed. Those expectations and the reality of the tension and pull of sin in its’ various shapes and sizes, still lead us to grace. That’s a good thing; that’s the good news.
Because of what Jesus did on the cross, this decision of giving your life to Jesus guarantees your salvation. However, this daily walk with Christ is found in daily decisions of submission. There must be more to Christ, more to Christianity, than a faith that stops after the cross. It’s not: I’m saved, I’m done. Jesus never had that in mind, whatsoever. I am not talking about a worksbased salvation; but I am talking about a breathing, living, faith that comes from a redeemed heart. A faith that changes how we think and act in all areas of our lives, should move us in our everyday encounters with people. Because of love for God and His Kingdom, one’s salvation should produce a living faith which will naturally flow into serving others.
For by grace, you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— 9 not the result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life. (Ephesians 2:8-10)
Journeying together with Jesus,
Pastor Rich