-THE LIFE OF CHRIST - EARLY JUDEAN MINISTRY

 Jesus’ Conversation With Nicodemus

-John 3:1-21

-Nicodemus, a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews, came to Jesus by night.  Due to the miracles that Jesus

had performed, Nicodemus knew that Jesus was a “teacher come from God”.  Jesus began speaking

to Nicodemus about the kingdom of God and explained that to enter into it one had to be “born again”. 

Under the Old Testament Law, the Jews were physically born into a covenant relationship with God.

Under the New Covenant, one would have to be “born again” – spiritually.  Nicodemus didn’t fully

understand because he was thinking in a physical perspective.  However, we find that Nicodemus did

continue to follow Jesus (see John 19:39). 

            -When reading this passage in regards to being “born of water and of the Spirit” it is good to

              compare it to 1 Peter 1:22-23.

-Again, Jesus alludes to His crucifixion. 

-In Jesus’ words to Nicodemus we find one of the most known verses in all the scriptures – John 3:16.

-In verse 17, Jesus reveals that His primary role in coming to Earth was that of Saviour.  At His

 second coming, He will serve in the role of Judge (2 Cor 5:10, Matt 25:31-46).