Sermon notes
Sample notes for this mockup
Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews, a respected teacher who knew the Scriptures well. Yet he came to Jesus by night, with questions he could not answer on his own.
1. A teacher who came by night verses 1–2
Nicodemus begins with what he can see: the signs Jesus has done show that God is with Him. It's an honest start, but Jesus takes him further than he expected to go.
2. You must be born again verses 3–8
Jesus doesn't offer Nicodemus a better rulebook. He tells him that no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again, born of water and the Spirit. Like the wind, the Spirit's work is real and powerful, even when we can't see where it comes from.
New birth isn't something we achieve. It's something God gives.
3. As Moses lifted up the serpent verses 9–15
Jesus points Nicodemus back to Numbers 21. Israel looked to the bronze serpent and lived. In the same way the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that whoever believes in Him should have eternal life.
For reflection this week
- What questions would you bring to Jesus if you came to Him by night?
- Why can't new birth be earned or inherited?
- Read Numbers 21:4–9. What does it show about looking to God in faith?