John 3:16 is probably the most well-known verse in the Bible. But sometimes, we forget just how powerful and personal it really is.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Not Just for Some
It doesn’t say eternal life is for people with a perfect past. It doesn’t say it’s for those who’ve never messed up or never struggled with addiction. It doesn’t exclude people who’ve been to prison or hit rock bottom.
It simply says whoever believes. That includes every single one of us.
Why I Had to Share This
I felt like I needed to share this for anyone who thinks they’ve been disqualified from God’s love. Maybe you’ve messed up. Maybe you’ve walked away. Maybe you’ve told yourself there’s no way God could want you.
But He does.
Just recently, someone at our church shared part of their story. They’d come out of gangs, drugs, and prison and in that moment, as they spoke during communion, God’s presence was so real.
Their story was a reminder: Jesus came for everyone.
“If Only You Knew My Past…”
I’ve invited people to church who laughed and said, “The roof would fall in if I walked through the doors.” What they really mean is, you don’t know what I’ve done.
But here’s the truth, I don’t need to know. God already does. And He still wants you.
Jesus doesn’t ask you to clean up first. He says, “Come as you are.” That’s the power of grace. That’s the message of the Gospel.
We’ve All Missed the Mark
We all fall short. We’ve all rebelled against God in one way or another. Even the people who look like they’ve got it all together, none of us are perfect.
The result of sin is separation from God. But Jesus took the penalty for us. He died so we could live. And when He rose again, He made a way for all of us to be born again and have eternal life.
What It Means to Believe
Sometimes we overcomplicate what it means to believe. It’s not about ticking boxes or doing everything right.
Believing means committing your life to Jesus. It means deciding to follow Him. Not perfectly, but purposefully.
It’s a change in direction. It’s saying, “I’m done living life my way. I want to live it God’s way.”
This Is for You
If you’ve ever felt like you’re too far gone, too broken, or too unworthy, this is for you.
Jesus died for you. He rose for you. And eternal life is available to you.
Not once you’ve got it all together. Right now.
All it takes is a yes.
Listen to the full message below.