1. The Gospel of John contains a great amount of information that will help us to grow in the knowledge of Christ as we are instructed in 2 Peter 3:18. 2. By examining: a. the testimony of various people who interacted with the Lord we are able to learn about His identity b. the Lord's teaching we are able to learn His will on many subjects. 3. We are presently studying the information recorded in John 3. a. (vs.1-21) Jesus had a conversation with Nicodemus. b. Previously, we covered vs.1-7 in which Jesus showed that a person must be "born again" [born of water and of the Spirit] to enter God's kingdom. c. Nicodemus was confused -- he thought that Jesus was talking about a second physical birth [which is impossible]. d. Jesus was talking about a spiritual rebirth. Discussion: I. (John 3:8-21) JESUS CONTINUED HIS EXPLANATION OF SPIRITUAL MATTERS TO NICODEMUS
A. (vs.8-12) Even though he was "a master of Israel," Nicodemus had difficulty differentiating between "earthly" [physical] and "heavenly" [spiritual] things. B. (vs.13-15) Jesus came from heaven to provide "eternal life." 1. This eternal life required a sacrifice -- that Jesus be "lifted up." 2. Jesus illustrated His point by referring to the occasion when Moses lifted up the brass serpent (Numbers 21:4-9). C. (vs.16-17) God's great love prompted Him to send His Son from heaven to be lifted up on our behalf (Romans 5:6-10). D. (vs.18-21) Jesus explained why some people will accept His offer of eternal life while others will reject it. E. While Nicodemus was confused about the Lord's requirement to be born again to enter God's kingdom, . . . II. (John 3:22-24) A NUMBER OF PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD AND OBEYED THE LORD BY BEING BAPTIZED
A. Jesus and His disciples were in Judea and baptized. B. John also baptized before he was imprisoned. III. (John 3:25-35) JOHN ACKNOWLEDGED THE GREATNESS OF CHRIST
A. John stated that Jesus came from heaven (vs.31). B. John also explained why some people will receive everlasting life while others will suffer God's wrath. Conclusion:
1. The statements of Nicodemus and John help us to know who Jesus is. 2. The Lord's instruction to Nicodemus reveals His will concerning entering God's kingdom and receiving eternal life.
