As we approach Easter we will hear more about the numbers 316. These numbers are associated with probably the most famous verse in the Bible, John 3:16. John 3:16 assures us, “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.” Without this verse there would be no Easter.

There is another 316 that serves as a constant reminder for me to walk in the way. In Revelations 3:15 Jesus says, “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other.” I interpret this verse to mean you cannot be half in the Word and half in the world. The half in the world is an open invitation for the devil to come in.

Jesus is not happy with Christians that ride the fence. In verse 3:16 Jesus continues, “So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” I spent a good portion of my life as a lukewarm Christian. I was spit out of the Lord’s mouth and into a prison in Oklahoma.

But, in 3:19 Jesus tells us, “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline.” Jesus loved us enough to give up His life so we could have everlasting life. Which brings us back to where we started, John 3:16.