Much could be said about this famous (most famous?) chapter in the Bible, but I'd like to post just a few observations:
I am struck by the repetition of "belief" in Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus. The religious leaders don't believe (3:12), but Jesus identifies belief in Him as the key to eternal life (3:15; 3:16; 3:18). Of course, the richness of John 3:16 could be mined forever! There is a reason it appears so frequently on stickers and signs, on tattoos and terrible towels. It contains the essence of the gospel message in a single verse.
One of the themes in John's Gospel is why we ought to believe in Jesus. In that day and age, having two witnesses was considered very important to establish something as true. The last half of chapter 3 deals with the testimony of John the Baptist. He is willing to vouch for Jesus as the bridegroom who has come for His bride; John is only the friend of the bridegroom (maybe "the best man?") I've always considered John's statement in 3:30 ("He must become greater; I must become less.") as one of the greatest examples of authentic humility.
Here's a question for you: How do you feel about Nicodemus? Was he a clueless religious leader who couldn't understand what Jesus was talking about? Was he cowardly for venturing out only "at night" to talk with Jesus rather than seek Him out in the daylight (especially considering 3:20?) Or was he an honest seeker looking to Jesus for spiritual answers? I myself have tried not to be too hard on him - it's thanks to him that we have this wonderful passage in our Bibles!
I think the Holy Spirit was working on Nicodemus. He was seeking the truth about this Rabbi but was not ready to jeopardize his standing or life for Him. Aren't we often the same---walking through life with quiet, "private " faith, being cautious of what others may think?
ReplyDeleteHey Pastor Jon. We spoke briefly yesterday about using Greek and Hebrew words just for the sake of using Greek and Hebrew words. John the Baptist, in this passage, would be the shosh'bin; close companion of the groom who makes sure all goes right before, during, and after the ceremony. Yay seminary!
ReplyDeleteI think Nicodemus understood who Jesus was, but was very afraid of what would happen to him if he strayed from the pack. I am sure he worked very hard to get where he was, and had a lot of clout among his fellow Jews. Outwardly confessing Christ would mean losing EVERYTHING. So I can't blame him for sneaking out at night.
John 3:16,17 were the first verses I learned when I started my walk with Jesus over 50
ReplyDeleteyears ago.
I think the way Nicodemus went about seeking Jesus is very similar to how many people are about seeking Jesus. Many people are unsure, and don't want to be betrayed or ridiculed by others.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite verses in this chapter is John 3:30 " He must become greater; I must become less." This is so important when having a relationship with Christ. We must remember that we are living for Christ, not for ourselves. This is sometimes hard to grasp, but a very important part of the Christian faith.