God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.
“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.”John 3:16 (KJV)
What does “Love” mean in John 3:16?
The Greek word for love is agape, a love that gives itself. Only begotten translates monogenes, which means one of a kind, the only Son of His kind.
Going deeper
This is often called the heart of the Gospel, and it is worth reading slowly. God so loved the world. The world here is not a small group of the worthy but everyone. The proof of that love is not a feeling but a gift: He gave His Son. The purpose is clear too: that whosoever believeth should not perish but have everlasting life.
Advent gives this verse a background. The baby in the manger is the gift, given because of love. That means love, in the Bible, is measured by what it is willing to give. It also means we are invited to receive. A gift that is not accepted remains on the table. If you have never quite believed that the gift is for you, read the verse again and hear the word whosoever. It means anyone. Then let that love shape how you give to others this season.
Reflect
Have you received the gift of God's love for yourself, and how can you share it with someone else today?
Pray
Father, thank You for loving the world so much that You gave Your Son. Help me to receive that gift and to give love freely. In Jesus' name, amen.
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