John 3:16
| For it is so written in |
| Scriptures |
| Reference |
| Analysis |
John 3:16 is a verse from the Gospel of John which reads:
“”For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
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At the point in the narrative where this verse occurs, Jesus is the one speaking it -- so this verse is essentially Jesus telling everyone about his love and care for everyone.
Since it has been translated into a huge array of languages, including ones which have incomplete or nonexistent Bible translations, it may be the single most translated piece of writing in human history.
[edit] As a political tool
In the US, at least once per election, someone (usually the Democratic candidate) will have chain e-mails spread around accusing them of "faking" their Christianity: At a <insert party here> rally on <insert date here>, <insert candidate here> stated that their favorite verse is John 16:3 rather than 3:16. This is a particularly ironic mistake to make, because the text of John 16:3 is:
“”They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.
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Cue rage from conservative talk radio. Actually this gaffe was originally committed by George H. W. Bush,[1] who is a Republican. And in any case, why should it be impossible for a "real" Christian to name John 16:3 as their favorite verse?
[edit] The verse in popular culture
Because the verse is so central to the meaning of Christianity, it is often used as a means by which to raise awareness of the religion.
- American retailer Forever 21 features the phrase on its packaging
- American fast food chain
In-N-Out-UrgeIn-N-Out Burger references the verse on its soda cups. - Rollen Stewart (aka "The Rainbow Man") gained a degree of notoriety for waving a sign that read "John 3:16" at sporting events while wearing a multi-coloured wig. Signs featuring the reference have become a common sight at sports events.
- Advertisements for digital clocks sold to Christian consumers are usually depicted with "3:16" as the time of day.
- Wrestler "Stone Cold" Steve Austin modified it into Austin 3:16, which says "I just kicked your ass!"
- Tim Tebow. Oh FFS.