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3:16


3:16

You’ve seen these letters at the ball games on TV like the Super Bowl.  There is even a professional wrestler who uses this as his name or logo or something.  Often people think this is just a cool sign or number, yet God has much more in mind.

Have you noticed that when you get people’s attention with what you do, what you were or even what you say that conversations begin?  It is like the guy at the ball game that is freezing cold and he isn’t wearing a shirt, but he has these numbers or his team logo painted on his shirt.  One of my favorites is the sign at the golf tournament that is held up next to the green as the crowd is silent.  Even some athletes have put the numbers on their faces.

Getting the attention of people is something that God calls Christians to do.  He has called our church to do the same, and since we began one of our key thoughts has been this: we are to get the attention of our community, and while we have their attention tell them about Jesus.  I believe that with all I am.

So what about 3:16?  Here are some of the places that it takes us:

John 3:16  NLT
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

1 John 3:16  NLT
We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us.  So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.

The first verse is one that we have seen and heard for years.  The next verse stays close as I think about it.  But there is more.  There is much more.

Ephesians 3:16  NLT
I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.

Colossians 3:16  NLT
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives.  Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives.  Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.

The Christian has to know that it is the power of God, the presence of God and the resources of God that makes our lives the best possible.  As we allow the message of Jesus run through our lives we are changed.  Others will be changed too.

Next time you seen a sign or hear the numbers 3:16 stop and ask yourself if you are a sign for others to see who Jesus. 

I’ll close today with a little different number but a great word for us (5:16):

Matthew 5:16  NLT
In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

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