John 3:1-10
Nicodemus - a man who had everything! Knowledge, power, and according to history - wealth.
A simple conversation with Jesus would quickly show him there was something he lacked; something his knowledge, power and wealth were unable to attain.
John 3:2 tells us that Nicodemus went to see Jesus at night. Perhaps it was the only time he could speak with Jesus privately. He's already discussed Jesus with his colleagues, "...we know you are a teacher who has come from God." He then refers to the miracles that Jesus had performed.
The miracles were powerful signs to those who witnessed them. Back in John 2:11 the miracle just performed revealed Jesus' glory - and the disciples put their faith in him.
Nicodemus wants to talk to Jesus about the miracles.
Have you ever thought you had a situation completely figured out, and so you go to God in prayer and explain to Him exactly what needs to be done so the situation can work out the way you want it to? When God's answer comes, it's completely different than what you've asked for. Why? Because He knows what you really need.
Jesus knew what Nicodemus really needed - something we all need - to be born again. A confounding answer to an inquiry on miracles.
Can you imagine Nicodemus mentally changing gears - "How can a man be born again when he is old? Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!"
Jesus goes on to explain that, " ...no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit." All who are alive have been born in the first respect, those who believe in Christ as their Messiah would be born again in the spirit. Look at John 1:12-13, "Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God - children born not of natural descent, not of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God."
In John 3:9 Nicodemus asks "How can this be?" Jesus answers "You are Israel's teacher and you do not understand these things?"
Nicodemus - a man lacking something - and what he was missing was standing right in front of him!
Before I was saved, I didn't understand like Nicodemus. I Cor 2:14 says "The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them." It was only until I received Him in my heart that my eyes were opened and I believed and understood the truth. We are called to share Jesus with the world. They may question it, reject it, or praise God accept it, but it wouldn't be because of anything we said or did. It is God alone who reveals Himself, opens hearts and does the saving. Lord, give me an opportunity to share Your miracle of redemption and grace, but not that I would I boast in myself, but only in You.
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