One of the hallmarks of John’s short sermons is that they almost always contain the plan of salvation in a single verse. Here it is verse 16: “This is how God showed his love to the world. He gave his one and only son, that everyone who believes in him may not perish but have life eternal.” In perhaps the most beautiful words ever written, this verse presents the why as well as the how of God’s redeeming love. Later, in his letters, John will betray a preoccupation with the question “What is the meaning of love?” Here he gives himself and all of the answer.

— Michael Card