Not to Condemn

It seems like most anyone can quote John 3:16 — “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”  And justly so, it is a wonderful summary of the Christian message and a tremendous promise.

But do you know the next verse?  “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”  (John 3:17, click here for the full passage)

I believe it breaks the heart of God when His Church becomes known more for what we oppose and condemn than what we celebrate and proclaim.

Jesus coming to be one of us and among us is not because God the Father was annoyed and decided it was time to send the disciplinarian.  It was His love for us, even in our messed up state, and desire to draw us back to Himself.

Think on that when you are struggling. Jesus came not to condemn you but that you might be saved!

Perhaps more challenging, think on that when someone is making you crazy.  Jesus came not to condemn that person, but that they might be saved!  See if that doesn’t shift your attitude!

This column appeared in the March 10, 2024 edition of St. John’s eNews. Click here for the complete issue.

If you are reading this at a different time, you may click here for the current eNews.