Why is the love of God important in understanding salvation?

God’s love is central to the narrative of salvation, as shown through the relational dynamics of the patriarchs. In Genesis, Jacob's love for Joseph can be seen as a foreshadowing of God's love for His own Son, Jesus Christ. This love is not merely sentimental; it compels God to provide redemption for His people. John 3:16 encapsulates this when it states that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son. The depth of God’s love is revealed in the sacrifice of Christ, who bore the sins of His people. Understanding this love helps believers grasp the gravity and grace of their salvation, motivating them to live in gratitude and faithfulness.