John 3: 16 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. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
So many of us are familiar with John 3:16 and what a message it gives to the world!! Our relationship based Father loved us so much that He gave His only Son that you and I might have everlasting life!!! How tremendously awesome is that? However, many people stop their thought at the period on verse 16 and miss a major point that is laid out for us in verse 17. As you know I am very purposeful about getting the message to the world that, while religion is good, and we need to be a part of a Church family, the true saving power of Jesus is found in a relationship with Him. Religion never has nor ever will save a person! The relationship with Jesus always has and always will perform the saving of lost souls in this world!
Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against organized religion; I was a Minister for 11 years! However, if we get so wrapped up in the rituals of religion that the relationship of Jesus is not fortified and focused on everyday, there is a problem. You see, back in the days that Jesus walked the earth His biggest complaints were with the people that seemed the most religiously on track; the Scribes and Pharisees. They were the Church leaders of the day. they, more than anyone else should have been correctly following God; but they were consumed with religion and not with God. The totally missed the most central theme of God, the relationship.
It doesn't take a biblical scholar to realize that through the Scriptures Jesus was all about building relationships with people. Review verse 17 again: "but that the world THROUGH Him might be saved". This is one of the many relational texts you will find throughout the Bible. This has to be our focus each day; it cannot be a one-sided thing with Jesus doing all of the work. True, loving and growing relationships require two active participants.
How is your relationship with God? Are you striving everyday to know Him better? Is He your BFF (best friend forever)? Are you so wrapped up in doing Christian things such as going to Church, teaching the Word, preaching or serving that you have lost that daily time with God enhancing your relationship?
John 3:16-17 tells us that God sent His son to build relationships with God's children so that one day we could be where He is; that was the primary purpose. So, what is the primary purpose of your relationship with God today?
Remember: God's got this!!!
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