John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Primary
What this passage establishes
God’s love gives the Son so believers may receive eternal life rather than perish.
Why it matters in the argument
Grace is God’s saving source, Christ’s death and resurrection are the saving event, and living faith is the means of reception. Biblical obedience responds to grace; it does not purchase it.
Apostolic connection
The gospel pattern is Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Acts 2:38 gives the covenant response: repentance, burial with Christ in baptism, and new life by the Spirit.
Common misunderstanding
The Bible’s rejection of meritorious works does not turn commanded faith-response into unbelieving human merit. Scripture can oppose works of law while demanding obedience of faith.
How to use it in conversation
Clarify source, event, and response: saved by grace, through faith, because of Christ, in the obedient response God commands.