John 3:16

The world [κ ο σ μ ο ν]. See on 1 9.

Gave. Rather than sent; emphasizing the idea of sacrifice.

Only - begotten Son. See on 1 14.

Have. See on ver. 15.

This attitude of God toward the world is in suggestive contrast with that in which the gods of paganism are represented.

Thus Juno says to Vulcan :

"Dear son, refrain : it is not well that thus A God should suffer for the sake of men." " Iliad, " 21, 379, 380.

And Apollo to Neptune :

"Thou would'st not deem me wise, should I contend With thee, O Neptune, for the sake of men, Who flourish like the forest - leaves awhile, And feed upon the fruits of earth, and then Decay and perish. Let us quit the field, And leave the combat to the warring hosts." " Iliad, " 21, 461, 467.

Man has no assurance of forgiveness even when he offers the sacrifices in which the gods especially delight. "Man's sin and the divine punishment therefore are certain; forgiveness is uncertain, dependent upon the arbitrary caprice of the gods. Human life is a life without the certainty of grace" (Nagelsbach, " Homerische Theologie "). Mr. Gladstone observes :

"No Homeric deity ever will be found to make a personal sacrifice on behalf of a human client" (" Homer and the Homeric Age, " 2 372).