Understanding John 3:16
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"For God so loved the World, that he gave his only begotten son, whosoever
believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 17:9 says "I pray for them (Israelites): I pray not for the WORLD, but for them which thou hast given me.” As you can see the word WORLD has been used in two different contexts. It's obvious you need to know the definition(s) of the word "WORLD": l. Planet Earth. 2. Particular society(s) of people having common interests, customs etc. Example: the Chinese world, Greco Roman World, the Arab world, the animal world etc. John 18:20 says, "Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the WORLD; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in temple, whither the Jews, always resort: and in secret have I said nothing."
Isaiah 45:17 says "But Israel shall be saved in the Lord with an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded WORLD without end.”
So Israel is the World God so loved in John 3:16.
James 4:4 Says "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the WORLD is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the WORLD (by following the philosophies/doctrines of other nations) is the enemy of God."
God never wanted the Nation of Israel to become friends with the other societies of people (nations) Psalms 106:34-39. So the WORLD not prayed for in John 17:9 are the other nations.
Matthew 15:24 says “…I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of Israel.”
Acts 5:31 says "Him (Christ) hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins."