TEXT: John 3:1-21
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In this passage Nicodemus, a respected religious leader comes to Jesus by night to discuss his identity. Jesus's response teaches us one of the most fundamental truths of Christianity: we must be born again or we cannot see the Kingdom of God. What does Jesus mean by this? How is one born again? What does this have to do with each one of us? This new birth is a miracle of God wrought in us by his Spirit. Reflecting on the doctrine of regeneration leads us to gratitude for the gift of salvation.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night. Why do you think he does this? How does this relate to the themes of Light and Darkness in the Gospel of John?
How does Jesus respond to Nicodemus in verse 3? Why would he steer the conversation in this direction? (Consider how John 2:25 relates to this)
HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
What does it mean to be born again? How does this foundational doctrine (Regeneration) set Christianity apart from all other religions?
John 3:16 may be the most popular verse in the Bible. How does this verse stir your affections for God?
HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
There are no explicit commands for us to follow in this passage. But there are truths that shape the way we think and live. What are some of these?
How does this passage encourage us in our task of sharing the gospel with those around us? (See also Romans 10:13-17)