What does Nicodemus want?
Read John 3:2
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Jesus involved in what Nicodemus needed.
Sometimes, we are so focused on what we that we become blind to what we really .
You must be born again.
Read John 3:3
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Despite the fact that Nicodemus has so much religious , inside he is spiritually .
Nicodemus is the walking dead.
“While a man is in a mere natural state, before he is born of God, he has, in a spiritual sense, eyes and sees not; a thick impenetrable veil lies upon them. He has ears, but hears not; he is utterly deaf to what he is most of all concerned to hear. His other spiritual senses are all locked up; he is in the same condition as if he had them not; Hence he has no knowledge of God, no intercourse with him; he is not at all acquainted with him. He has no true knowledge of the things of God, either of spiritual or eternal things. Therefore, though he is a living man, he is a dead Christian.” – John Wesley
So how does spiritual birth from above take place?
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When we repent of our sins, when we trust Jesus for salvation, when we surrender our lives to Him, simultaneously, the Spirit births new life within us.
“But as soon as he is born of God there is a total change in all these particulars. The eyes of his understanding are opened. He sees the light of the glory of God. His ears being opened, he is now capable of hearing the inward voice of God. He feels in his heart the mighty working of the Spirit of God. He feels the love of God shed abroad in his heart by the Holy Ghost which is given unto him. God is continually breathing, as it were, upon his soul, and his soul is breathing unto God. Grace is descending into his heart, and prayer and praise ascending to heaven.” – John Wesley
Read John 3:16
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Here are some personal reflection questions for John 3:1-21, which recounts the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, and Jesus’ teaching on being “born again” and God’s love for the world:
1. Understanding “Being Born Again” (John 3:3-8):
- Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be “born again” to see the kingdom of God. What does “being born again” mean to you personally?
- How does this concept of spiritual rebirth challenge or encourage your understanding of salvation?
2. Nicodemus’ Struggle with Understanding (John 3:4-9):
- Nicodemus seems confused by Jesus’ words. Are there any parts of your faith journey where you struggle to understand or accept what Jesus is teaching?
- How do you handle moments of spiritual confusion or doubt?
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit (John 3:5-8):
- Jesus explains that being born again involves the Spirit. How do you experience the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life?
- In what ways can you be more open to the Holy Spirit’s work within you?
4. The Nature of God’s Love (John 3:16):
- John 3:16 expresses God’s deep love for the world. How does this verse shape your understanding of God’s love for you personally?
- How do you reflect God’s love to others, especially those who may not yet know Christ?
5. The Gift of Eternal Life (John 3:16-17):
- Jesus came not to condemn the world, but to offer eternal life. How does knowing that you are offered eternal life through faith in Christ impact the way you live day-to-day?
- Do you live with an eternal perspective, or is your focus more on the present?
6. Light vs. Darkness (John 3:19-21):
- Jesus talks about the contrast between light and darkness. What areas of your life are you holding back from the light of Jesus?
- How can you invite more of God’s light into your life, especially in areas where you may feel reluctant to change?
7. Personal Responsibility and Response (John 3:18-21):
- Jesus says that whoever believes in Him is not condemned. How do you respond to the reality that belief in Jesus is the key to salvation?
- Are there any changes you feel called to make in your life based on this passage?
8. The Importance of Faith (John 3:18):
- Jesus points out that belief in Him is essential for not being condemned. How does this challenge your faith journey?
- Is there any area in your life where your faith in Jesus needs to grow or become more genuine?
9. Reflection on God’s Timing (John 3:13-15):
- Jesus speaks about His future death being necessary for salvation, pointing to the bronze serpent story. How does the timing of God’s plan, which unfolds through Jesus, impact your trust in His perfect timing for your life?
10. Application of Christ’s Message (John 3:16-17):
- How do you actively live out the truth of John 3:16 and John 3:17 in your relationships and daily actions?
- What does it look like to shar