“For God so loved the world, that he gave his Only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
This is undoubetdly one of the most cherished verses in all of scripture for many people; it teaches a significant truth about God’s love for His children and His divine plan for our salvation. To me, I see this as a foundational expression of Heavenly Father’s infinite and eternal love for all of His children, and it assures us of the central role of Jesus Christ in our redemption.
Elder M. Russell Ballard once said, “Our Maker loves us and desires our happiness. In an incomparable manifestation of this divine love for us, he sent his Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ.” The gift of Jesus Christ, His atoning sacrifice, and His resurrection represent the supreme evidence of God’s love for each of us. This love is personal and universal. Because of Christ’s perfect obedience to the Father and His willingness to take upon Himself our sins, we have the opportunity to return to God and receive eternal life if we believe in Him and follow His Commandments.
The word “believe” in this verse carries significant meaning that goes beyond mental acceptance or verbal affirmations alone. It encompasses action, trust, and transformation. True belief in Jesus Christ is an active, living faith—faith that manifests itself in the way we live and the choices we make every day. This kind of belief invites us into a covenant relationship with God and leads to a lifetime of discipleship.
This belief inspires us to repent, recognising that through the Saviour’s Atonement, we can be cleansed from sin. Repentance is a process of turning away from unrighteousness and turning our hearts fully toward Christ. It is an expression of faith in His power to redeem and transform us. True belief in Jesus Christ fills us with hope and humility, motivating us to seek forgiveness and bring our lives in one accord with His teachings. Belief in Christ also calls us to follow His example in the ordinance of baptism, where we covenant to take His name upon us, keep His Commandments, and always remember Him. Baptism symbolises rebirth and a commitment to live as His disciple. It is an outward demonstration of inward faith—a step that solidifies our desire to walk in the path of righteousness.
Following baptism, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, a constant companion who strengthens our faith, teaches truth, and sanctifies us. The Holy Ghost enables us to feel God’s love more profoundly and empowers us to discern His will. This sacred gift helps us stay connected to Christ, guiding us in times of temptation and strengthening us in times of need.
True belief in Jesus Christ calls for enduring faithfully to the end. Endurance is not passive; it is an active, conscious effort to stay faithful despite trials, doubts, or worldly influences. Endurance means continuing to trust in the promises of God, relying on the grace of Christ, and striving to live according to His teachings even when life is difficult. It requires patience, perseverance, and a firm resolve to remain true to the covenants we have made.
When we trust in His promises, rely on His grace, and emulate His perfect example of love and service, our belief in Christ becomes a living testimony. It influences every facet of our lives—how we treat others, how we respond to adversity, and how we fulfil our divine potential. Believing in Christ means following Him with full purpose of heart, trusting that through Him, we can receive not only forgiveness but also strength to become more like Him. This active, living faith leads to joy, peace, and, ultimately, eternal life in the presence of our Heavenly Father.
Knowing that Heavenly Father loves us enough to send His Son fills us with hope and reassurance. No matter how lost, broken, or burdened we may feel, the Saviour’s Atonement has made it possible to be healed and redeemed. In moments of trial or discouragement, we can hold fast to this truth. God’s love is perfect, and His plan is designed for our eternal happiness. Let us show our gratitude by placing our faith in Jesus Christ, following Him, and sharing this message of love and salvation with the world.
