As Christ Believed – John 3:16

By Jean-Philippe Gabriel — frameworklove.com | February 21, 2025

For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life (John 3:16). This simple yet profound statement offers clear guidance through an act of belief. It appears straightforward—a belief in His name. While it is sometimes interpreted as a mere statement of believe, it is meant as a fundamental authentic, meeting of the minds, that is tested by its fruits, as Paul later confirms in Galatians 6:22: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness." This fruit, allegedly stemming from faith and not works, paradoxically manifests as works but motivated by a different kind of inspiration.

Ironically, one of the most critical concepts in Christology lacks a dedicated term in Christian lexicon, leaving us to describe it conceptually. This idea of "believing in Him," as John phrased it, or "faith," as Paul articulated it, encapsulates the same spiritual mystery—a new covenant, a new paradoxical way of live, through dying, through some sort of magical transformation, inexplicable and invisible, concerning our deepest innermost selves.

In a way, this type of "believing" goes beyond merely joining a political organization and endorsing its core message, which might be compared to expressing a belief through a vote. This belief or faith involves a deeper commitment—it’s about embodying and living out the organization's core values. It represents a meeting of the minds and a commitment to deed and action, characteristic of a devoted revolutionary.

It, in a way represents a way of live that transcends the body, logic, and reason, delving into God’s paradoxical and idiosyncratic reality, perceived and presented in strange and intriguing ways. This understanding is discerned within the simplicity of Christ's cup and is grasped by the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

It calls for a deeper level of belief—not merely acknowledging His existence but actively embracing His truths and embodying His teachings. This shift lays the groundwork for a nuanced interpretation of John 3:16, inviting us to consider the profound implications of "believing what he believes" as we journey towards greater spiritual enlightenment and transformation.

The entire meaning of the text changes if "believe in him" is replaced with "believe what he believes." The Greek verb "πιστεύων" (pisteuōn) indeed implies more than a passive belief; it conveys an active trust and commitment. When paired with the preposition "εἰς" (eis), meaning "into" or "to," it suggests a deep, personal connection or relationship.

The phrase "πιστεύων εἰς αὐτόν" (pisteuōn eis auton), which literally means "believing into him," underscores the profound depth of the relationship between the believer and the object of faith, with the preposition "into" emphasizing a dynamic and immersive connection. This construction not only signifies belief in the person of Jesus but also signifies a transformative adherence to his teachings and principles. Therefore, "believing what he believes" emerges as a powerful expression, symbolizing a robust commitment to embodying and living out the transformative truths exemplified by Jesus himself.

While this may seem like a reinterpretation, "believing what He believes" aligns with the original intent of the text. Both phrases—believing in Jesus and believing what He believes—essentially point to the same truth. However, "believing what He believes" brings us closer to a full immersion in His mindset, actions, and values. It invites us into the mystery of Holy Communion, where we symbolically partake in His life, reminding ourselves of our shared faith.

In this way, John 3:16 could be understood not merely as "believing in Him" but as "believing what He believes," calling us to participate in a transformative, self-sustaining system of love. This autopoietic cycle of giving and receiving grace leads to a heart transformed by grace, immersed in the endless flow of love and forgiveness, just as Christ modeled for us, leading to a new creation, one of pure heart, separate and holy, which is to be aligned with love’s values as a system.