THE NEXT VERSE
Today's reading:  John 3-4

John 3:16 is probably the most famous verse among Christians.  Small children are taught to memorize it.  Posters, wall hangings and Christian art feature it.  It's popular enough you'll find it penciled onto the eyelids of some famous football players.

Everyone knows it.  It's a great verse.  But do you know the verse that follows it?

"God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it."  John 3:17 NLT

For those of the world who think Christianity is binding, full of rules and regulations and nothing but 'cannots', this verse clears up that myth.

God wants us saved, not condemned.

God wants us feeling His love, not feeling full of blame.

God wants us to live a life declared innocent, not one of guilt.

We place condemnation upon ourselves and each other.  Do not think for a minute it's God's doing.

John 3:16 is a wonderful verse to know--but true freedom comes when we know the next verse!