How does this verse connect with John 3:16's message of salvation? Two Verses, One Rescue Mission • 2 Corinthians 5:19: “that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” • John 3:16: “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.” Shared Vocabulary, Shared Heartbeat • “the world” – God’s saving concern is universal (cf. 1 John 2:2). • “God…in Christ” / “God…gave His Son” – the Father personally initiates salvation through the Son (cf. Romans 5:8). • “not counting trespasses” / “shall not perish” – sin’s penalty is lifted (cf. Isaiah 53:6). • “reconciling” / “eternal life” – a restored relationship that never ends (cf. Colossians 1:20–22). Love Expressed, Justice Satisfied 1. God’s motive: relentless love (John 3:16; 1 John 4:9–10). 2. God’s method: substitution. Christ bears sin so we don’t (2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 9:26). 3. God’s outcome: reconciliation—hostility replaced by friendship (Romans 5:10–11). The Legal Side: “Not Counting Trespasses” • Picture a ledger wiped clean (Psalm 103:12). • Jesus’ death cancels the record (Colossians 2:13–14). • Believers now stand “justified” (Romans 3:24). The Life Side: “Eternal” Means Now and Forever • New birth begins the moment we believe (John 1:12–13). • Eternal life is both a present possession (John 5:24) and a future hope (Revelation 21:3–4). Our Present Assignment • “He has committed to us the message of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:19). • John 20:21 echoes it: “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” • We announce what God has already accomplished—salvation available by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). Takeaway: The Verses Interlock John 3:16 reveals God’s love in giving His Son; 2 Corinthians 5:19 explains the result—sins no longer counted, relationship restored. Together they form a seamless declaration: believe in the Son, receive eternal life, and enjoy reconciled fellowship with the Father—then share that good news with the world. |
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