I grew up listening to fundie christian parents babble at length how we were living in end times. And mocking them mercilessly (at first among my fiends, later to their faces) as often as possible.
Now look at us - on the brink of non-existence politically, environmentally, and civilizationally. Not sure that last one is a word.
If they were right I’m gonna have some 'splainin to do.
Dammit.
John 3:16 makes it clear that it’s “whoever believes in Him”
I think it’s up to interpretation. Gotta remember that the entire bible was written and compiled by men, most of whom had ulterior motives. The gospels weren’t written down for hundreds of years after the events described.
So for me, I look at the events that describe Jesus’ actions and words. The overarching theme with him was, fuck religion, Fuck the establishment. He also was described as a sacrificial lamb, which is what was used in the old days to atone for sins.
So if he was killed to atone for our sins, why should it matter if you believe in him or not? I really don’t think Jesus or god cares if you do. If ho loves us all, as the bible says he does, then why would he damn us for simply not believing in jesus? Doesn’t make sense to me.