Love or Judgment?

John 3:14-21

Father Mark’s sermon revolves around interpreting the famous biblical verse, John 3:16, which states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life." Father Mark discusses how this verse can be interpreted as either comforting or terrifying, depending on one's perspective. He highlights the contrast between viewing God as a loving, merciful being or as a demanding, uncompromising judge.

Father Mark emphasizes that interpreting the Bible involves drawing upon tradition, reason, experience, and other biblical passages. He suggests that the word "believe" in John 3:16 could be better translated as "trust," shifting the focus from holding specific beliefs to surrendering to the Spirit of Christ. He draws parallels with parables of the lost sheep, coin, and son, illustrating God's unconditional love and desire to seek out and rejoice over those who are lost.

The sermon invites the congregation to interpret John 3:16 as a message of God's love and healing rather than condemnation. Father Mark proposes understanding the word "saved" in verse 17 as being healed from various societal ills, aligning with God's desire to restore wholeness and union with the divine. He encourages interpreting the Bible through the lens of a merciful, forgiving, and infinitely loving God.

Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.