John 3:16-21 Salvation not Judgement

In today's reading although Jesus is still with Nicodemus, our Gospel writer almost seems to be reflecting of Jesus's mission and purpose for clarification.  "God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish, but have eternal life."  Jn 3:16 

The Son is co-equal to the Father as part of the Holy Trinity.  As the only-begotten Son, he is eternally loved.  So are we because of the Father loves us enough to send us his Son to die for us that we might have eternal life. 

There is nothing that can hold back God's love for us.  Even in our first reading for today God sends his angels to free the disciples of the Son so that they can continue to teach the multitudes about His infinite love and mercy. 

John 3:7b-15 Nicodemus

In today's Gospel Jesus speaks with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin who was convinced by the miracles of Christ Jesus, and that he was sent by God.  Jesus' message to Nicodemus was simple:  faith and Baptism are necessary for eternal life. 

Nicodemus is a respected, rich, and well learned man.  Jesus is gentle with his words explaining what he can in a manner that this man can understand and connect the dots within the faith that lives within him.  Jesus is leading him to everlasting life.

As a side note, this is this same Nicodemus who after Christ's death assisted at Jesus' burial (see John 19:39)