John 3:18
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 3:18 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Gospel of John highlights the importance of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. It emphasizes that those who believe in Jesus are not condemned, but those who do not believe are already condemned. The verse underscores the centrality of faith in Jesus as the only way to receive eternal life and escape judgment. By acknowledging Jesus as the only begotten Son of God and putting their trust in Him, believers are saved from condemnation. On the other hand, those who reject Jesus and refuse to believe in Him are already under condemnation because they have not accepted the gift of salvation through faith. This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of faith in Jesus Christ for all who seek redemption and eternal life.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of John 3:18, it is crucial to understand the significance of belief in the context of salvation. The verse emphasizes the pivotal role of faith in Jesus Christ as the basis for salvation. Those who believe in Him are not condemned, highlighting the importance of trust and reliance on the Son of God for eternal life. Conversely, those who do not believe are already condemned because of their rejection of the name of Jesus. This underscores the exclusivity of salvation through Christ and the necessity of faith in Him for redemption. The theological implication of this verse is clear - belief in Jesus is the dividing line between condemnation and salvation.
John 3:18 in other translations
American Standard Version
He that believeth on him is not judged: he that believeth not hath been judged already, because he hath not believed on the name of the only begotten Son of God.
World English Bible
He who believes in him is not judged. He who doesn’t believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God.
Douay-Rheims
He that believeth in him is not judged. But he that doth not believe is already judged: because he believeth not in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Hee that beleeueth in him, is not condemned: but hee that beleeueth not, is condemned already, because he hath not beleeued in the Name of that onely begotten Sonne of God.