How does 2 Corinthians 6:2 connect with John 3:16 about salvation? Setting the Scene “For He says: ‘In the acceptable time I listened to you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ Behold, now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation!” “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The Shared Heartbeat: God’s Loving Initiative • Both verses place the first move with God—He listens, He helps, He gives. • Salvation is presented as a gift, never something earned (Ephesians 2:8-9). • The Father’s love (John 3:16) and the Father’s timing (2 Corinthians 6:2) work together to make rescue possible right now. “Now” and “Whoever”: Two Keys That Unlock Hope • “Now is the day of salvation” underscores urgency; procrastination is dangerous (Hebrews 3:7-8). • “Whoever believes” widens the door; no one is excluded from the invitation (Romans 10:12-13). • Together they shout, “Anyone can come, but everyone must come today.” Old Promise, New Fulfillment • 2 Corinthians 6:2 quotes Isaiah 49:8, showing that what God promised to Israel finds its climax in Christ’s cross and open tomb. • John 3:16 announces that climax: the Son is given, the world is loved, eternal life is offered. • God’s covenant faithfulness spans Testaments, confirming Scripture’s unity and reliability. What Salvation Involves, According to These Verses 1. God’s Love—initiated by the Father (John 3:16; Romans 5:8). 2. God’s Timing—offered right now (2 Corinthians 6:2). 3. Human Response—believe and receive (John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10). 4. Certain Outcome—eternal life and present favor (John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 6:2). Why Urgency Matters • Life is uncertain; the gospel is not (Proverbs 27:1; James 4:13-14). • Rejecting or delaying the “acceptable time” despises God’s gracious help (Hebrews 2:3). • Today’s “yes” to Christ transforms destiny forever (Acts 16:31). Wrapping It Together 2 Corinthians 6:2 supplies the when—“now.” John 3:16 supplies the how—“believe.” Both reveal the why—God’s immeasurable love and His desire that none should perish (2 Peter 3:9). |
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