Will our belief in Jesus reward us with eternal life? Is there a contradiction between John 3:16 vs James 2:19?
[audio:http://www.truthrevolution.tv/show/TS-0012.mp3]
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Dave: John 3:16 – one of the most famous Bible verses ever – says, “whoever believes in [Jesus] shall not perish but have eternal life. ”
Jeff: I LOVE IT! Faith in God is what is required to be saved.
Dave: But – is that a CONTRADICTION with the rest of the Bible?
Jeff: Oh c’mon
Dave: People have pointed out that James 2:19 says “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that — and shudder”
Jeff: so the demons believe…
Dave: Right – but I doubt you say they’ll be saved.
Jeff: Of course not. Our acronym “CRACKED” helps us solve Bible contradictions – and the first “C” is context. What was the context of the audience – who was he talking to?
Dave: Humans.
Jeff: Exactly. So John 3:16 only applies to humanity. If I walk into my workplace and say, “I’m buying drinks for everyone!” I don’t literally mean everyone in the world. Context is key.
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