Lesson 1: John 3:16
The Blueprint — The Verse
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.
Memorization Practice
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King James Version (KJV) — Public Domain.
The Context — The History
JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. More spoke these words to NicodemusNicodemus was a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin, and one of the few Jewish leaders who approached Jesus with sincerity. His nighttime conversation with Jesus reveals the doctrine of the new birth, and his later actions show a quiet but courageous faith. More, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, during a private nighttime conversation in Jerusalem. First-century JudeaJudea was the southern region of ancient Israel during the time of Jesus, governed by Rome and centered around Jerusalem and the Temple. It formed the political, religious, and cultural heart of Jewish life, and serves as the primary setting for Jesus’ ministry, His trial, and the early church. More was under Roman occupation, and religious leaders were divided over how to respond to Jesus' growing influence.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
opens with NicodemusNicodemus was a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin, and one of the few Jewish leaders who approached Jesus with sincerity. His nighttime conversation with Jesus reveals the doctrine of the new birth, and his later actions show a quiet but courageous faith. More acknowledging that JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. More is a teacher sent from God. JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. More immediately redirects the conversation toward the necessity of spiritual rebirth — being born again of water and Spirit — before revealing the depth of God's love for the world.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Read the verse immediately before this lesson () to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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What does it mean to 'believe' in JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. More in daily life?
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How does God's love for the world shape the way we love others?
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Why do you think JesusJesus of Nazareth, also called the Christ or the Messiah, is the central figure of the New Testament and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. Born in the line of David, He taught with divine authority, performed miracles, and revealed the kingdom of God. More spoke these words privately to a religious leader?
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