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The Greatest Gift Is God's Love In Action. John 3:16
Contributed by David Cramer on Dec 19, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: The greatest gift we can give or receive in any season is from the Lord our God.
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The Greatest Gift. God's love in action.
I am what it says I am.
I can do what it says I can do.
I am going to learn how to be what it says I can be.
Today I will learn more of the word of God.
The indestructible, never ending, living word Of God.
I will never be the same.
I will never be the same.
In Jesus Name
Amen?
Before you sit down, say good morning to your brothers and sisters.
The Greatest Gift – God’s Love in Action
Turn with me in your Bible to John 3:16 and say, "Amen when you are there.
"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." – John 3:16
Introduction: God’s Love on Full Display
John 3:16 is often described as the heartbeat of the Bible.
It encapsulates the Gospel in one verse—a declaration of God’s infinite love, His ultimate sacrifice, and His promise of eternal life.
But this isn’t just a verse to memorize—it’s a truth to experience.
Today, I want you to see yourself in this verse.
I want you to feel the personal weight of these words and hear God saying to you:
"I love you. I gave My Son for you. Will you trust Me?"
This message is more than a sermon; it’s an invitation to encounter the love of God in a fresh, life-changing way.
1. God’s Love Is Relentless
"For God so loved the world..."
The phrase “God so loved” isn’t casual—it’s passionate, intense, and deliberate.
God’s love is not a reaction to what we’ve done; it’s a reflection of who He is. It’s a love that pursues us relentlessly, even when we run from Him.
Illustration: Imagine a shepherd leaving ninety-nine sheep to search for one that wandered off.
That’s the heart of God—He’s always chasing after the lost. No matter how far you’ve strayed, His love keeps coming for you.
God doesn’t love you because you’re perfect or because you’ve earned it. He loves you simply because you are His creation.
You are the “world” in this verse—He sees you, knows you, and values you.
2. God’s Love Is Sacrificial
"That He gave His only begotten Son..."
Love that doesn’t cost anything is shallow. God’s love cost Him everything. He didn’t give a token of His affection;
He gave His only Son. Jesus willingly left heaven, lived among us, and endured the cross—all for you.
Picture a parent giving up their only child to save the life of someone else.
That level of sacrifice is beyond our comprehension, yet that’s what God did for us.
Jesus bore our guilt, our shame, and our punishment so we could be free.
I once met a woman named Sarah during a church outreach. Sarah carried the weight of years of mistakes and regrets, convinced she was beyond redemption. But when she heard the words of John 3:16, something shifted.
She realized that God’s love wasn’t about what she had done but about what Jesus had done for her. That moment transformed her life. She accepted Christ, and today she is a light to others, sharing the same love that rescued her.
3. God’s Love Is Transformational/
"Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
God’s love isn’t just about saving us from death; it’s about giving us a new kind of life—one that begins the moment we trust Him. Eternal life isn’t just about a future in heaven; it’s about a present reality of walking with God, knowing Him, and living in His purpose.
Imagine receiving a priceless inheritance—more than enough to erase all your debts and provide for your future.
That’s what eternal life is. It’s not something you can earn; it’s a gift God freely offers to those who believe in Jesus.
Challenge: The key word here is believe. It’s not about having all the answers or being perfect; it’s about placing your trust in Jesus and surrendering your life to Him.
4. God’s Love Demands a Response
John 3:16 is God’s declaration of love, but every declaration of love invites a response. He’s done His part—now it’s up to you. Will you accept His love and follow Him, or will you walk away?
If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Savior, today is your day. Maybe you feel unworthy, broken, or unsure. Let me assure you: God loves you just as you are, and He’s calling you into His family.
If you’ve drifted away from God, His love hasn’t changed. He’s waiting with open arms, ready to restore you.
Altar Call: A Moment of Decision
I invite you to respond to God’s love today. Don’t let fear, doubt, or pride hold you back. Come to Him as you are, and let Him do the work of transforming your heart.