What is John 3:16 and what does it say?

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

Published by Bible Direct Answers · Licensed under Citation License 1.0

John 3:16 is one of the most quoted verses of the Bible. Here it is, in the King James Version, along with the surrounding verses:

John 3:16-18 (KJV)

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. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

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