Jesus Teaches Nicodemus
3 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council...
Jesus Teaches Nicodemus — A Deep Teaching on Spiritual Birth Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a respected teacher of the law, and a member of the Sanhedrin—Israel’s highest religious council. Though learned and influential, he sensed there was something missing in his spiritual life. He saw the miracles of Jesus and recognized divine power at work. Scripture: “There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night…” — John 3:1–2 Nicodemus came at night, possibly out of fear, but also seeking clarity. He respectfully acknowledged Jesus: “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God…” — John 3:2 Jesus did not flatter him or answer his compliment. Instead, He went straight to the core of Nicodemus’ spiritual need. 1. Jesus Reveals the Mystery of Spiritual Birth Jesus said: “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” — John 3:3 Nicodemus was shocked — how can a grown man be born a second time? Jesus clarified: “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” — John 3:5 What does being born again mean? Not a physical birth, but a spiritual transformation A complete change of heart, mind, and character A new beginning created by the Holy Spirit The removal of the old sinful nature and adoption of God’s nature Jesus continued: “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” — John 3:6 The Spirit gives new life that human effort cannot produce. 2. Jesus Explains the Work of the Holy Spirit Jesus compared the Spirit’s work to the wind: “The wind blows where it wishes… so is everyone born of the Spirit.” — John 3:8 The wind cannot be seen, but its effects are real. Similarly, the Holy Spirit works invisibly but powerfully in the life of anyone who comes to God sincerely. 3. Jesus Reveals God’s Plan of Salvation Nicodemus struggled to understand but Jesus gently pointed him to the heart of the gospel. “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up.” — John 3:14 This refers to Jesus being lifted on the cross. Then Jesus spoke one of the most famous verses in Scripture: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” — John 3:16 Jesus revealed that salvation is not by religion, laws, or human effort — but by believing in Him and accepting His sacrifice. 4. Jesus Teaches About Light vs Darkness Nicodemus came at night, symbolizing spiritual darkness. Jesus explained why many reject the truth: “Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.” — John 3:19 Those who follow God move toward the light: “He who practices the truth comes to the light.” — John 3:21 Moral Lessons From Jesus and Nicodemus 1. A sincere heart attracts divine revelation Nicodemus sought Jesus honestly, and Jesus revealed deep truths to him. 2. Religion is not salvation Nicodemus was a religious leader but still needed to be born again. 3. Everyone needs spiritual rebirth No one enters the kingdom of God by good works, knowledge, or church attendance — only by new birth through the Holy Spirit. 4. God’s love is for all John 3:16 reveals that salvation is open to everyone who believes. 5. Light exposes the true condition of the heart Those who love God move toward truth. Those who cling to sin avoid the light. 6. Transformation shows true repentance New birth produces: new desires new behaviors new thinking a new life in Christ 7. Seek God personally Nicodemus met Jesus privately — sometimes you must seek God away from the noise and opinions of others. Additional Bible Verses for Reflection 2 Corinthians 5:17 “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature…” Titus 3:5 “He saved us… by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 12:2 “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Ezekiel 36:26 “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you.” Conclusion The story of Nicodemus reminds us that God desires not just outward religion, but a changed heart, a new life, and a relationship with Jesus. Spiritual rebirth is the doorway to God’s kingdom, and it begins when we believe, repent, and surrender to Christ.
Key moral lessons:
- Seek truth sincerely
- Spiritual transformation matters
- Faith leads to salvation
- Walk in God’s light
Bible Verses: John 3:1-21, John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:2
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