John's Gospel and Salvation By Faith

The Baptist concluded his explanation of the relationship between Jesus and himself with a summary that echoes Jesus' words to Nicodemus. This passage addresses the topic of salvation by faith, but not as a doctrinal proof-text as many seek to employ it. Treated in context alongside Jesus' statements to Nicodemus (ref. 3:17-18), it's clear John intended these verses to contribute to his larger argument concerning Israel's response to Jesus (whether faith or unbelief) and the consequences attached to it. This message considers that contribution.