3:16 ON 3/16 in 2025 Provides Gospel Opportunities

March 16 (or “3/16”) falls on a Sunday in 2025. Because of the significance of “John 3:16” to the biblical teaching of salvation, the North American Mission Board has created an emphasis called “3:16 on 3/16.” It is an opportunity for churches to share the powerful truth: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish, but shall have everlasting life.” 

To assist churches that want to develop a 3:16 on 3/16 emphasis, NAMB is working on a website, www.316on316.com, to support this effort. The Dakota Baptist Convention is also developing resources and suggestions for this special day. Pastors and churches will receive more info in early January, but we wanted to get this date and opportunity on our radar screens now.

As you look ahead to 2025, here are some initial thoughts:

1. Pray: Prayer is key and at the center of every great evangelistic movement. We therefore encourage earnest and fervent prayer. Ask God to open doors of opportunity for your church to reach out and the hearts of Dakotans to receive the gospel. Calling on the Father is always the first step in any preparation.

2. Sermon preparation: Sermons focused on John 3:16 can present a clear message of hope and divine love for the lost. Take time to re-read and re-study Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus as though it were your first time and consider preaching on this text on March 16.

3. Planning: Begin exploring and preparing for ways that could uniquely impact your community for Christ on March 16. We are developing additional resources and ideas intended to be a help and will make these available after the start of the new year. 

4. Share: We would love to share what you will be doing in your church and community. Please send us your ideas so that we can add that to our list for others who might find them useful.

Remain blessed as you stay committed to reaching the lost for Christ,

Segun Adeyemo: Evangelism Intern, Dakota Baptist Convention

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish, but shall have everlasting life.”