For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. – John 3:16

4. Only begotten Son

The Son that God sent is very special indeed. This Son is an eternal part of the Trinity. Jesus is God in the flesh. He took on the form of humanity and was tempted just like each of us are but never sinned. He submitted himself to hunger, thirst, and fatigue just like we feel. He was fully human yet fully divine. In spite of all of His power he humbled Himself by dying on the cross. Imagine the picture of an eternal, all powerful being willingly spreading his hands for nails to be driven. Of course, He did all of this for the salvation of the world and the glorification of the Father.

5. Believeth

Faith has replaced law for justification and forgiveness of sin. People do not have work to please God. Jesus has pleased God and paid the ultimate price. People will obtain life by faith, not by works. We could never be good enough to earn God’s favor, but Jesus was good enough. Therefore, belief or faith in the work of Jesus on the cross and his resurrection is enough to put us in right standing with God. This belief means we trust that the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus is sufficient in the eyes of God to save us.

6. Perish

The biggest problem that all people have is that they are going to die. We all know it. We try our best not to think about it, but it always creeps into the back of our mind. Not only that, but what happens next? Is this all there is? All of humanity wants to believe that there is something beyond this life. Behind this word perish is the idea of total destruction or complete loss. This hints at something beyond mere physical death. Physical death is unavoidable, but in death we do not have to be totally destroyed.

7. Life

This is the best part. Life is what we all want. We want a vibrant, abundant life. Humans in every age, for all of history have fought to stay alive. We want to live joyously, long, fulfilling lives. But the more time we spend alive, it begins to dawn on us that the type of life we really desire eludes us. But God gives a new life. The eternal, vibrant, abundant life of God is now given to all who believe in Jesus. While we are here, it might not always feel that way. But remember, we are pilgrims, this is not our final home. God will give us purpose, grace, and abundance here. However, the life He wants to give us in full waits on the other side.