STUDI ATAS MAKNA PERCAYA DALAM YOHANES 3:16 DALAM PERSPEKTIF SOTERIOLOGI

Abstract

John 3:16 is a highly popular verse in the Christian faith, yet the meaning of the word "believe" within it is often understood in a limited sense as merely intellectual assent. This article aims to explore the theological significance of the word "believe" from a soteriological perspective (the doctrine of salvation) based on the text of John 3:16. The method used in this study is a literature review with a qualitative descriptive approach. The findings indicate that the word "believe" (pisteuo) is not merely a mental acknowledgement but a total self-surrender to Christ as the object of faith. From a soteriological standpoint, believing is the sole instrument that connects God's grace with sinful humanity. This article concludes that the assurance of eternal life can only be experienced personally when an individual responds to God's initiative of love through genuine faith. A proper understanding of the meaning of "believe" is crucial for the assurance of salvation and the spiritual growth of believers amidst the challenges of the modern era.