A Closing Prayer

 

Many people, if asked what their favorite verse in the Bible is, will agree on John 3:16:

 

“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.”

 

This verse has become so popular that author Max Lucado has written a book and a series of study guides about it. You can get the words “John 3:16” inscribed on jewelry, coffee cups, bumper stickers, wall plaques, bible covers and tote bags.

 

As a single verse, perhaps that says it all, but later in the same chapter, you will find the same message restated in slightly different words, and then, just one verse away, another important statement which is probably the second most important statement found in the New Testament.

 

Let’s read John 10:27-30 together:

 

27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30 I and My Father are one.”

 

As you see, verses 27 and 28 say that if you follow Jesus you will have eternal life and not perish, a restatement of John 3:16. Then in verse 30, the answer to the question that many people are asking – “Who is Jesus?” Is Jesus the son of God? Is Jesus one third of the Holy Trinity? Is Jesus a man? Is Jesus God? Yes, He is, according to John 10:30: “I and my Father are one.” This message is repeated in John 14:24: “He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me.”

 

Believing in these verses is what locks in your faith as a Christian. Other religions claim that Jesus was just a major prophet, a mortal. The look toward God for their salvation, which will not come until they understand what you now know, that Jesus is Lord. The Jews and the Muslims are two very large religions that need to accept Christ as their savior. As you now know, this fact is clearly stated in the Bible. What more proof do you need?

 

Let us pray:

 

Dear Lord, let us be known as the faithful followers of Christ. We do not require miracles of you; our faith is sufficient proof that you will lead our flock with the hand of God. Knowing that we shall have eternal life with our creator gives us the courage to make the best of this temporary life you have given us on earth. Guard our faith and keep our path straight so that we may sit at your feet in the Kingdom of Heaven. We ask Your blessing in Jesus’ name. Amen.