A study of John 3:1-15 covers the need for spiritual rebirth, an explanation of spiritual regeneration, and the act of a sacrificial savior.
A study of John 3:1-15 covers the need for spiritual rebirth.
Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God. (ESV, John 3:3)
Nicodemus was a religious leader who visited Jesus at night. A member of an important body of Jewish religious leaders called the Sanhedrin. The word “ruler” is the Greek archōn and implies significant authority. So, Nicodemus held an important position in the community. But why visit Jesus at night? Some commentators suggest he wanted to keep his spiritual interaction with Jesus from the public square. Conduct his own investigation under the radar. He wouldn’t be alone in this motive. At a critical moment, Jesus’ disciple Peter also publicly denied knowing him. Even today, people avoid publicly confessing Jesus by claiming they maintain a private faith. But then again, maybe Nicodemus visited at night because he worked all day.
He started respectfully by calling Jesus “rabbi.” And acknowledged Jesus’ miracles were signs his power came from God. But he stopped short of confessing him as the Son of God. Curious, but not ready to commit in faith. And that presented a puzzle. Then who was Jesus?
However, Jesus didn’t wait for Nicodemus to ask his first question. No small talk about sports or the weather. Inquiries on his family. Debate on Roman politics or Jewish law. Jesus already knew all his thoughts. Instead, he looked divinely into Nicodemus’ heart and addressed the most profound question on earth. What happens when you die?
And his answer? Nicodemus must be “born again.” The two words in Greek are gennēthē anōthen. Gennethe means to regenerate, be born and bring forth. And anothen means from above, from the beginning, and the top.
In other words, the most pressing need for every person is a spiritual rebirth that comes from God. But Nicodemus, one of the most learned religious teachers of his day, didn’t get it. And he responded in terms of physical human birth.
A study of John 3:1-15 covers an explanation of spiritual regeneration.
Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (ESV, John 3:5-6)
Jesus answers Nicodemus’ question about human birth with a further explanation. There are different interpretations on the meaning of the phrase: born of water and the Spirit. Here are a few of the most popular ones.
Physical birth versus spiritual birth
Nicodemus asked how he could physically re-enter his mother’s womb for a second birth. And some theologians suggest the phrase is describing two births. One physical and the other spiritual. But the idea of birth as “of water” was not part of the ancient culture. So while the idea makes sense to us today, it wouldn’t to Nicodemus. Furthermore, the Greek construction of the phrase “water and spirit” promotes a similar idea rather than two different ones.
Water refers to water baptism
This fits with our modern understanding of salvation followed by water baptism. But it wouldn’t to Nicodemus. Baptism was a new spiritual practice introduced by John the Baptist. And since Jesus rebuked Nicodemus as a Jewish teacher, it makes more sense he would speak to him from an Old Testament perspective. Additionally, this interpretation of the phrase implies that baptism is a requirement for salvation.
Water and Spirit present a unified thought
When water is used figuratively in the Old Testament, it often refers to renewal or cleansing. And there are many Old Testament passages that speak about the heart. Consider this passage from the prophet Ezekiel that puts them together.
I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. (ESV, Ezekiel 36:25-27)
In this sense then, water signifies cleansing from impurity and the Spirit, regeneration of the heart. As a religious leader, Nicodemus likely considered obedience to the law his primary religious duty. Perhaps, Jesus was trying to open his eyes to a different perspective. One that emphasized the importance of a cleansed, new heart. And if he looked, he would see this concept presented in the law.
A study of John 3:1-15 covers the act of a sacrificial savor.
And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. (ESV, John 3:14)
It is the Holy Spirit who regenerates the human heart and Jesus explains him a little further. And he does so by comparing the Spirit to wind, using the same Greek word neuma for both. In Acts 2:1-4, Luke records an event on the Jewish celebration of Pentecost when all the new Christ-followers gathered together and were filled with the Holy Spirit. He describes the sound of a mighty rushing wind (Greek: pnoe) that filled the entire house and all the believers with the Holy Spirit (Greek: pneuma).
The point is that both the wind and the Spirit move invisibly in a mysterious fashion. But we can see their effect. And often, the demonstration of a great, moving force.
Finally, Jesus connects two events. The first is in Numbers 21:4-9. As Moses led Israel from Egypt into the wilderness, the people began to complain. As punishment, God sent poisonous snakes into their camp and those bitten died. When the people repented, God told Moses to fashion a bronze serpent on a pole and anyone bitten by a snake would live if they looked at the bronze serpent.
The next event was his future crucifixion. Jesus would be lifted up on a cross and sacrificed for the sin of mankind. And just like the people who physically looked on the bronze serpent and were healed, those who spiritually looked on Jesus and “believed” would be spiritually healed from their sin and granted eternal life. The Greek word for “lifted” is hupsŏō, which means to lift up, to elevate, and exalt. So beyond just the physical raising of Jesus on the cross, it also presents the exaltation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God.
The Greek word for “believes” in V.15 is pisteuōn and means ongoing trust. It affirms that belief in Jesus involves an ongoing comittment of discipleship and is not just a one time experience.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of relationships in discipleship, spending time with Jesus, and spiritual discernment.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of relationships in discipleship
Immediately after becoming a disciple of Jesus, Andrew took his brother Simon to meet him. And likewise, when Phillip became a disciple of Jesus, he invited his friend Nathaniel to meet him too.
We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. (ESV, John 1:45)
But Nathaniel expressed a social bias that made him harder to convince.
“Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”
Nazareth was a rural village in lower Galilee. Small and insignificant. And its residents likely considered country bumpkins compared to cool cities like Jerusalem. Perhaps, Nathaniel would have responded differently if Philip associated Jesus with his birthplace, Bethlehem. Its royal ties as the city of David would have raised Jesus’ social standing.
But we are not so different today. And quick to form unmerited biases toward other people that pridefully make us feel superior.
However, Phillip was not detered and responded simply, “Come and see.”
This illustrates another truth. Discipleship begins and is built on relationships. Inviting others to meet Jesus and then walking together as followers. It leans on the influence of one godly life rubbing off on another.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of spending time with Jesus.
When Andrew and his fellow disciple of John the Baptist asked Jesus where he was staying, Jesus invited them to “Come and see.” The same words Phillip used in responding to Nathaniel’s objection. In each case, Andrew and Nathaniel became followers simply by spending time with Jesus. Today, it is still the presence of Jesus that radically transforms every disciple.
And we should note it is not our job as disciple makers to “sell” Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit who draws people to Jesus and convicts them of their sin. Our role is to provide a Gospel witness and invite others to meet Jesus. Of course, we should know what and how to share in a compelling manner. But it is the Holy Spirit and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ that produces disciples.
Furthermore, every disciple should make spending regular time with Jesus a priority through reading God’s word. Because spiritual transformation is an ongoing pursuit of growing more Christ-like. And involves the mutual, support, encouragement, and accountability of walking with other believers.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of spiritual discernment.
There’s a stark contrast between how Jesus and Nathaniel assess one another. Before they meet Nathaniel utters a put down on Jesus based on his home town. But when they meet, Jesus declares a positive affirmation about Nathaniel.
“Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!”
An astute observation or a divine peak into Nathaniel’s heart? Maybe both. Nathaniel appeared startled by the spontaneous assessment. And his own biased assertion next to Jesus’ compliment may have also been convicting. How could Jesus know him so intimately when they had never met before? When Nathaniel asked, Jesus explained he saw Nathaniel under a fig tree.
Seems like an odd and evasive answer. What did Jesus mean by it?
The shade provided by broad leafed fig trees made them a popular respite from the hot sun. But they also carried a symbolic meaning in Jewish culture. Mentioned in both 1 Kings 4:25 and Micah 4:4, they were considered a place of prayer, meditation, and communion with God. Of course, the divine Jesus could see inside Nathaniel’s heart. And yet, something observable about Nathaniel’s body language also provided clues.
It reminds us that God sees everything in our heart. Sinful desires. Selfish motivations. And evil intentions. Therefore, we should be honest before God and quick to confess our sins. Furthermore, while our default is to grant others the benefit of the doubt, we should exercise spiritual discernment by observing righteous behavior.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
How Hezekiah beat Sennacherib. It was around 701 BC that Sennacherib, king of Assyria, sent his army to capture Jerusalem. Everything was in his favor. A big army. Well equipped soldiers. Advanced weapons of war. And Jerusalem’s King Hezekiah had only one defense. Here’s his story.
How Hezekiah beat Sennacherib. An arrogant boast.
Beware lest Hezekiah mislead you by saying, “The Lord will deliver us.” Has any of the gods of the nations delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria? (ESV, Isaiah 36:18)
Assyria controlled a large territory across the Ancient Near East, had already conquered most of Judah, and now besieged Jerusalem. City residents helplessly and wordlessly sat on top of the surrounding wall watching the Assyrian army’s commander strut before them on the ground below.
Arrogance dripped from his tongue as he ridiculed their weakness compared to his strength. And challenged their God to save them. No gods of any other nation had prevailed against him. What made them think their God could? Surrender and he would let them live. But the people remained silent as instructed by King Hezekiah.
How Hezekiah beat Sennacherib. A humble response.
As soon as King Hezekiah heard it, he tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth and went into the house of the Lord. (ESV, Isaiah 37:1)
When Hezekiah heard the report he sought refuge in the house of the Lord. And then appealed to the prophet Isaiah for spiritual counsel.
It is a good example for us to follow when life explodes beyond our control. Don’t immediately panic, but turn our thoughts and attention to God. And seek the prayers and counsel of Godly people. Isaiah assured Hezekiah that God would intervene. And immediately, the Assyrian army commander heard a rumor that caused him to return to Assyria.
Where is your help?
We all have moments like this. Struggles against the sudden and unexpected. Like an illness or injury. Lack of money to pay bills. An adversary that holds all the cards. And prayer is the only remaining recourse. But it seems so passive. Like admitting defeat and throwing up a hail Mary. When the complete opposite is true.
Because it is in our weakness that God most often demonstrates his strength and power. Our dependence is to his glory when we trust him and exercise faith.
How Hezekiah beat Sennacherib. Isaiah speaks God’s Word.
Do not let your God in whom you trust deceive you by promising that Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria. Behold, you have heard what the kings of Assyria have done to all lands, devoting them to destruction. And shall you be delivered? (ESV, Isaiah 37:10-11)
It was a short repreive, but Sennacherib was not done. He sent another messenger to repeat his threat. And Hezekiah retreated again to the house of the Lord. Only this time, he prayed to God himself. Asking for God’s deliverance, but also, that God’s name was glorified.
It illustrates God’s accessibility when we humble ourselves and seek him in prayer. But it shouldn’t be just about us. We should also strive to magnify the Lords’ name. And recognize that he responds according to his sovereign will.
Once again, Isaiah provides God’s answer to Hezekiah only this time, God’s words are directed to Sennacherib.
Whom have you mocked and reviled? Against whom have you raised your voice and lifted your eyes to the heights? Against the Holy One of Israel! Because you have raged against me and your complacency has come to my ears, I will put my hook in your nose and my bit in your mouth, and I will turn you back on the way by which you came. (ESV, Isaiah 37:23,29)
How Hezekiah beat Sennacherib. God delivers Hezekiah and dispenses justice to Sennacherib.
For I will defend this city to save it, for my own sake and for the sake of my servant David. (ESV, Isaiah 37:35)
During the night, the angel of the LORD struck down 185,000 from the Assyrian army. Sennacherib returned home and while worshipping his god Nisroch was murdered by his own two sons. God’s justice was carried out. Unfortunately, we often see injustice flourish and the innocent suffer. But this story reminds us that no one gets away with anything. A time is coming when we all appear before God for a final judgment.
In addition, this story illustrates another important story of grace. As Hezekiah and Jerusalem were helpless before King Sennacherib and the Assyrian empire, we are helpless before sin and Satan. God alone saves us through Jesus Christ. The Son of God who intercedes, defends, and saves for eternity all who call on his name.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Jephthah’s foolish vow is found in Judges 11:1-40. Impulsive, foolish words, said without thinking. And then followed by tragic actions. That’s the story of Jephthah. Here’s the vow he made, its consequences, and some lessons from it.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Don’t bargain with God
And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD and said, ‘If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace… shall be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. (ESV, Judges 11:30–31)
When God assigns us to a spiritual mission, he provides the resources we need. Sometimes, God confirms his call with a sign, but most often, he simply expects us to trust and obey.
In this story, Jephthah went beyond reassurance and tried to bargain with God to ensure an outcome. Rather than seeking God’s will, he tried to manipulate God to his will. Sound familiar? This is never a good idea and a recipe for disaster. It’s also helpful to keep in mind that God doesn’t call us to serve him because he needs our help. But to bless us with an opportunity to glorify him.
Who is Jephthah?
The period of time in Israel’s history between Joshua’s death and the rule of King Saul is known as the time of the Judges. It was a spiritually dark and politically unstable time when Israel was surrounded by hostile nations who sought to conquer and oppress it. Judges were primarily military leaders that God raised up to protect and deliver the nation.
Jephthah was the son of a prostitute who was rejected by his half-brothers and eventually associated with men of illrepute. A self-fulfilled prophecy of worthlessness. Except for one exceptional attribute. He was a skillful warrior. And when the people who rejected him were threatened by enemies, they turned to Jephthah for help.
Let’s root for Jephthah!
The underdog and social reject. Suddenly with the chance to be a hero. Step up for God and become another feel good, Bible success story.
Except in real life, Bible heros are often flawed and uncertain. Wondering if they’re simply God’s pity pick. But that’s exactly how God often works. He surprises us by making our last pick his first. And using the ones everyone else rejects to further the Kingdom of God. Because God prefers availability over ability.
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 1:27-29)
To go from zero to hero probably caught Jephthah by surprise. So it makes sense he would seek validation. Divine assurance. And he sought to bargain with and manipulate God. However, that’s when he stepped into the bad idea zone.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Think before you speak.
“And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD and said, ‘If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace… shall be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering.’” (ESV, Judges 11:30–31)
Seriously, Jephthah. You will sacrifice the first thing to come out of your house? Why not what comes out of the old shed next to the house? The creek out back? And what did you expect to come out of your house anyway? A mouse? Snake? Your mother-in-law? Perhaps in all his fights, Jephthah got whacked in the head too many times with a dumb stick.
Because the first thing to exit his home and greet him when he arrived was his young daughter and only child.
And while we shake our heads at such a ridiculous scenario, are we without sin? Have we not also made foolish claims and then doubled down on them with actions that make things worse? To admit foolishness, requires humility. And willingly confront our sin, confess it, and seek God’s forgiveness.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Don’t follow foolish words with a sinful action
And he did with her according to his vow. (ESV, Judges 11:39)
God forbids human sacrifice in Leviticus 18:21, Deuteronomy 12:31, and 2 Kings 16:3. And a personal vow–especially a foolish one–does not take priority over God’s law. And yet, strangely, Jephthah felt bound by his oath and went through with it even though it broke God’s law. Did he really think it was a noble form of integrity?
Not at all. It represented both foolish words and warped thinking that was driven by pride. The same thing that drives our foolish words and sinful actions. However, godly humility leads to confession and repentance. The story illustrates the importance of measuring our words against God’s word and adjusting our actions accordingly.
Don’t make vows at all
Jesus said to avoid vows completly and simply use “yes” and “no.” We kid ourselves to think adding vows carries more weight in truthfulness. That only happens when our actions support our words. A reputation for integrity is built on consistent, righteous living. Not vows.
Fortunately, God did except one human sacrifice. His Son, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself on a cross for our sins.
Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (ESV, Ephesians 5:2)
Through Jesus, we are forgiven of our sins, made right with God, and presented the gift of eternal life. The tragic story of Jephthah’s foolish vow points us to the Gospel of Jesus. Where his sacrifice offers us new life.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Enjoy Christian Fiction?
Check out these two detective novels with a mystery, witty dialogue, and Christian message. Soul Pursuit is the first book and Finding Grace the sequel.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals the Word is preexistent and eternal, God’s agent for creation and salvation, and the physical revelation of God as man.
Background:
The Gospel of John was written by John the apostle near the end of his life around 80-95 AD. And identifies himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” At this time in history, original Jewish leaders like Peter, James the brother of Jesus, and Paul had been martyred and there were more Gentiles in the Christian church than Jews. It is this mixed audience that John writes to.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is the preexistent and eternal God.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. (ESV, John 1:1-2)
Who is Jesus Christ? This was the central question during Jesus’ earthly ministry, among the early churches, and we still ask it today. The Gospel of John provides a clear answer. And he does so by going back to the beginning.
The Greek word for “beginning” in John is arche, which means beginning, origin, and first cause. And the Hebrew word for “beginning” in Genesis is berēʾšît, which means beginning, first, or first fruits. Both point to the beginning of creation.
John strategically refers to Jesus as the “word” which is the Greek word logos. It had a unique meaning to both groups in his audience.
Word = Logos
To the Jews, “word” carries power. God spoke the world into existence. Jesus calmed a raging storm with commanding words. And God’s written word communicates his covenantal law and reveals his will. However, to the Greeks, logos meant reason. The Stoics said logos was the divine rational principle that brought order to chaos, pervaded all things, and structured the cosmos.
And now, John makes an audacious claim. The Word was present at the time of creation, which means he is eternal and preexistent. Furthermore, he was with God and was God. In other words, he is a different person, but has the same divine essence as God the Father. The second person of the trinity composed of God the Father, Son, and Spirit.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is God’s agent for creation and the light of men
All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. (ESV, John 1:3)
The world did not evolve by chance. A random, uncaused spark out of nothingness that exploded into somethingness–a completely ordered universe of marvel and wonder. Rather, it was intentional. An Almighty design from divine imagination, yet precisely engineered and structured for mankind. And not just made by the Word, but held together by him too.
They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. (ESV, Ephesians 4:18)
But the Word is also a light for humanity. Because shortly after creation, the sin of Adam and Eve plunged the world into spiritual darkness. One that separates us from God and we can’t fix on our own. But the Word illuminates the way back to God.
REFLECTION:
How do you answer the question: Who is Jesus?
Describe the background story that forms your spiritual life today.
Do you relate more to the Jewish or Greek concept of logos? Explain your thoughts.
Describe your understanding of spiritual darkness. How is Jesus a light for you?
A study of John 1:1-14) reveals Jesus is God’s agent for salvation
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (ESV, John 1:12-13)
You’d think everyone would run to the light. But that is not the case and John readily admits it. Many people reject Jesus for different reasons. However, those who turn from spiritual darkness to the light and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord are spiritually reborn as children of God.
The Greek word for “Receive” is Lambano which means to receive a person, give access to one’s self, and take possession of.
In other words, receiving the light involves more than passive acceptance. Like simply accepting a gift. It expects a response. Not just a simple, do you receive this gift? But are you opening yourself up to what you are receiving? Will you fully embrace it? Make a whole hearted commitment to it? In other words, if you receive Jesus are you all in?
The Greek word for “believe” is pisteuō and means to trust, rely on, and cling to. It indicates that belief in Jesus is more than intellectual assent. Like believing in the existence of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. A superficial belief that requres nothing from you. Belief in Jesus involves a personal commitment. A willingness to follow Jesus as a disciple. To put your eternal life in his hands and trust him for the salvation that only he offers.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals that Jesus is the physical revelation of God as man.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son. (ESV, John 1:14)
Jesus didn’t simply put on a human form, like a set of clothes. He was fully human and fully God. And he experienced human life in every way that we do. The uncertainties, fears, hardships, pain, emotions, and temptations. Therefore, he understands our struggles. And he guides and supports us as we strive to follow him.
In Jesus, we see the Father. Through him, we are relationally restored with God. And by following him, we glorify God as we walk by faith in his righteousness.
REFLECTION:
Does the idea that “receiving” Jesus is more than passive acceptance change your ideas about the salvation process? Describe what you think belief in Jesus involves.
What is significant about the fact that Jesus is the agent of both creation and the spiritual recreation of mankind?
John makes it clear that Jesus is God in a completely human form. Why is this an important truth?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
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