For God So Loved You (sermon Blog)
Introduction: A Love That’s Personal
This past Sunday, we were blessed to have Pastor Matt Perry join us with a powerful message titled “For God So Loved You.” It served as a timely reminder of the deep, personal love God has for every one of us — not just the world in general, but you specifically.
“If you don’t hear anything else today,” Pastor Matt shared, “hear this: God loves you.”
The Most Famous Verse of All Time
We began by focusing on one of the most well-known and cherished verses in the Bible:
John 3:16 (NIV)
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
While this verse is often quoted, Pastor Matt urged us to personalize it:
Replace “the world” with your own name.
“For God so loved [your name]…”
It’s one thing to believe God loves humanity — but it’s life-changing to believe He loves you personally.
Understanding the Weight of God’s Love
Pastor Matt walked us through several key ideas about God’s love:
1. God’s Love is a Decision, Not an Emotion
Love, as Pastor Matt explained, isn’t just a fleeting feeling — it’s a choice God made to love us, even when we were unlovable.
God chose to love us in our brokenness.
His love isn’t based on our performance, but on His character.
“God made a decision to love you, no matter what.”
2. God’s Love is a Sacrificial Love
The cross is the ultimate proof of God’s love. Jesus didn’t just speak of love — He demonstrated it.
God gave His Son.
Jesus willingly took our place, so we could have eternal life.
3. God’s Love is an Invitation
Pastor Matt reminded us that John 3:16 extends an open invitation:
Whoever believes in Him…
This means no one is too far, too broken, or too lost to accept God’s love.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
So what should our response be to such a love?
Pastor Matt encouraged us to:
Believe it personally. Accept that God loves you, not just people in general.
Receive His love. Stop trying to earn it — it’s already freely given.
Live from His love. Let it shape your identity, choices, and how you treat others.
Final Thought
As Pastor Matt closed, he left us with this heartfelt encouragement:
“Maybe you just need to hear today — God loves you. That’s enough.”
And it truly is.
Join Us This Sunday!
We’re so grateful for Pastor Matt Perry’s message this past weekend. Don’t miss out as Pastor Steve resumes our series ‘Those Red Letters’ this Sunday at Pacific Life Church. We’d love to see you there as we continue learning what Jesus Himself had to say!