"FOR GOD SO LOVED..."

John 3:16, is one of the most loved and remembered of scriptures.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Every person is loved by God; even those who desire not to be loved, or who act in an unlovely manner. God cares for his creature, man, and is determined to guide him in the right and holy way. Through Simon Peter, he wrote:

"Be ye holy as I am holy, says the Lord"(1 Peter 1:16).

A study of human history reveals that when man obeys God, he is always brought to be best. Disobedience and non-obedience, brings shame and hurt.

"If you will be obedient, you shall eat the good of the land"(Isaiah 1:19).

"But God be thanked, that as you were savants of sin, you have now obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine delivered you. Then you were made free from sin, and became servants of righteousness"(Romans 6:17, 18).

Our Lord showed in His life an obedient spirit:

"Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered"(Hebrews 5:8).

The writer goes on to say in verse 9, that if we are obedient to him we will receive eternal salvation.

Christ is our example. We should follow in His steps (I Peter 2:21), and become more like him every day.

Yes, God loved, and continues to love man, but man must be obedient and follow what God has said to be happy and wise. There is no other way.

- Dan Carter