I disagree. There are some sinners that God loves, that's why I posted the verse I did (But I'm wondering now if maybe we are on the same page)?Originally, I thought about just replying "So?" when you just posted a verse. I know the verse. I've read the Bible. If that verse would have changed my view, my view would already have been changed. When you post a verse, you should attempt to tell me how it helps your position. Your posted verse supports me by distinguishing states of sinner and saint, and saying God loves the saint in that while we were sinners, Christ died for us. It doesn't say God loves sinners. God didn't love the sinner Esau. That's what it means when the Bible says God hated Esau.
Also:
Mark 10
17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.
19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
23 And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
24 And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God.
HankD