Is it true? Not exactly.

The word unconditional doesn’t appear in the Bible—I checked several translations. And yes, sometimes there are things that aren’t said directly but are nevertheless true. But when I ask people what Scripture they base this on, they mostly point to God’s love for Israel—that doesn’t include everyone, which is a condition. Some quote John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son…” This verse, rather than saying it doesn’t matter how you live or what you do, God still loves you, it speaks of a general love.  God loves the world so much that he was willing to put his Son through suffering and death—and resurrection, to offer salvation to those who would believe and obey.

The Bible is full of “if—then” statements such as,

 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. John 15:19

Jesus’ replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.”  John 14:23,24

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31,32

God’s love isn’t mushy or shifting, but rock solid for those who believe in Jesus and follow his teachings.