You may have seen ‘John 3:16’ displayed at various sporting events. My own recollection is seeing the verse often displayed on signs behind NFL end-zones just before an extra point or field goal is kicked. Why?

Because, John 3:16 encapsulates the Bible’s gospel message. The New King James version of the verse goes, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Jesus spoke these words 2,000 years ago to Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader. You see, Nicodemus came to Jesus by night to try and figure out just who this Man, who claimed to be Messiah, was. Although the Jewish leaders of that time recognized that a Savior was coming at some point, they believed adherence to the Ten Commandments and a multitude of other laws was necessary to earn God’s favor. We see that thinking today. Many people believe if their good works outweigh their bad acts God will have to allow them into heaven.

But, Jesus states in John 3:16, we can be assured of eternal life by simply believing in God’s Son Jesus – no works involved.

Don’t just flick through those 25 words. Delve into them. Meditate on them.

Seek and you shall find.