A Tremendous Tragedy John 3:1-10 The Question The Answer The Rebuttal
A Tremendous Tragedy John 3:1-10 The Question See John 2:23-25 Nicodemus – common Greek name Pharisee – “to separate” Popular with the people Sanhedrin – ruling body Zeal for law – external and ritualized Religion of behavior modification
A Tremendous Tragedy John 3:1-10 The Question The situation “we” represented others Came by night – cover “Rabbi” – talks to Jesus as an equal Jesus comes from God – no training Focus is on signs
A Tremendous Tragedy John 3:1-10 The Answer Shock – “you must be born again” Nicodemus plays the analogy How could he start all over again “born of water and Spirit” – parallel Ezekiel 36:24-27 John stated it is a spiritual thing John gives an example – wind
A Tremendous Tragedy John 3:1-10 The Rebuttal “How can these things be?” Nicodemus is having a difficult time letting go of his legalistic, religious system. Romans 10:2,3 Not a believer yet (Jn. 7:50; 19:38)
A Tremendous Tragedy John 3:1-10 Application Have you been born again by water and the Spirit? Is there any Nicodemus in you? Are you giving time to those you share Jesus with to respond?