How do we know God's love for the world?

John 3:16 famously states that 'God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son.' However, it's essential to understand that the 'world' refers not to every individual but to God's elect, those chosen before the foundation of the world. This divine love is displayed through the sacrificial death of Christ, who came to save His people from sin and condemnation (John 3:17). Thus, God's love is specifically towards those whom He has predestined to eternal life, demonstrating His sovereign grace.