“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
This is described as “the greatest offer ever made by the greatest person who ever lived.” We cannot overlook the fact that this greatest Bible verse on God’s love also contains a warning of judgment—should not perish—because God’s love and justice cannot be separated. His love will hound you to your dying day, but you still must choose Him.
On the cross, Jesus hung between two thieves. One thief believed on Him and went with Him that day to Paradise. The other railed on Him, mocking: “If you are really the Son of God, save yourself and us to.” (Luke 23:39). Hardened by sin and unrepentant, he had no remorse, even in the face of death! Between them was the cross of redemption, but they each had to choose, and so do we. God will never violate our right to choose, even if we choose to perish. This is why He sends so many warnings.
April 15 marks the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. The builders of this great ship boasted that she was unsinkable. Their reckless thinking resulted in the deaths of over 1500 passengers. Even after she had hit the iceberg and was quickly going down with many perishing, the New York Times newspaper printed: “all on titanic safe.” Western Union telegrams were also stating that all was okay. Continue reading The Titanic Delusion