People often ask me, “Why 3:16? Of all the verses in the Bible, why did you choose 3:16? And which 3:16 are you referring to? Why didn’t you include that in the actual store name?”
Our store name is based on John 3:16. But I didn’t just want to call the store John 3:16 because I think it takes away from the powerful ministry that goes forth when people just see the numbers “3:16” plastered onto a storefront or the mall directory. Believers almost immediately gather the context that we’re a Christian store. However, for those not yet a part of the faith, it sparks curiosity, causes them to walk into the store with questions, and instantly gives us the ability to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
As a child, I was so excited to share the Gospel with others. Sometimes, sharing the Gospel led to heated debates. One time, I came home so discouraged that I couldn’t get the message of Jesus Christ across to a particular person. After arguing over Scriptures for hours, I felt like I had lost the battle. After talking with my grandma and her sister (Aunt Mable), I remember them reinforcing to me, “The only Scripture you can share with a nonbeliever is John 3:16. Until they understand that, the rest of the Bible won’t make sense.”
Something clicked in me that day. I strongly believe that John 3:16 is the foundation of our faith because without love and God loving us enough to send His Son, without believing in the sacrifice His son Jesus made for us on the cross, there is no Gospel. There is no faith, and there is no message to promote. That’s why we became 3:16. Everything we believe stems from John 3:16, and that verse also holds true to everything we strive to be about: love, sacrifice, faith, and eternal life. The Gospel is such a beautiful thing, and we enjoy being able to share that in a unique way as a staple in shopping centers throughout Texas.
3:16 is so much more than numbers. It’s more than a Scripture. It’s more than our brand. It’s a lifestyle.
Jaylen LaGrande
Chief Steward/Visionary
3:16 Collection
888.SHOP.316
