What does it mean that Jesus was begotten?

The term 'begotten' concerning Jesus denotes His unique position within the Trinity as the Son of God. John 3:16 states, 'For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.' This does not imply that Jesus was created, but rather that He is eternally generated from the Father, distinguishing His relationship within the Godhead. The 'begottenness' of Christ asserts both His divine nature and His role in the redemptive plan, emphasizing that He is fully God while also being truly human through His incarnation. This language also points to His authority to act as our mediator and savior.