Why is John 3:16 the most famous Bible verse, and what does it really mean?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I have seen major leaguers, football stars and Hollywood icons wear John 3:16 on their faces, T-shirts, hats, and jackets, but it doesn’t make sense with how some of them conduct their lives. It seems doubtful that they understand what it means. Why is John 3:16 the most famous Bible verse, and what does it really mean? – M.J.
A: John 3:16 may be the most memorized verse in the Bible: “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” (NKJV).
Who can describe or measure the love of God? God is love. Throughout the Bible, we learn of God’s love. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, His presence with us, His future return – these tell us of the power and the promise of God’s love.
For centuries, mankind has been on an incredible journey, across every generation, searching for God. Most of us know about God, but that is quite different from knowing God.
God shows His love to us every day, with great kindness. He gives the sun and the rain we need. He paints beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the sky. He gives us family and friends to care for, and who care for us. He gives us smiles and laughter, and so many things we take for granted.
No matter what our sins, no matter how terrible they may be, God loves us and has provided a way for us to be received by Him as His very own children who will know His everlasting love. He forgives our sin when we humble ourselves before Him. This is all made possible through Jesus Christ. But we must receive Him and be willing for Him to change how we live and conduct our lives.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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