Podcasts about Nicodemus

Notes John 3:1-17 Genesis 12:1-4a Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:57 Exploring John 3: Nicodemus and the Concept of Being Born Again 13:13 The Journey of Faith: Nicodemus' Transformation 19:20 Understanding 'Born Again': A Deeper Look 24:03 The Significance of Jesus Being Lifted Up 29:10 The Invitation of Belief: A Call to All 30:36 The Way of Jesus: A Universal Understanding 35:50 Genesis 12: The Call of Abram 48:59 Romans 4: Abraham's Faith and Righteousness Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy explore the themes of faith, transformation, and the journey of understanding through biblical texts. They delve into John 3, discussing Nicodemus's encounter with Jesus and the concept of being 'born again.' The conversation transitions to Genesis 12, where God calls Abram to be a blessing to all nations, and concludes with a discussion on Romans 4, emphasizing justification by faith. The hosts reflect on the implications of these texts for contemporary faith and the importance of understanding the broader narrative of God's promise. Takeaways Nicodemus's journey represents the struggle of faith and understanding. The concept of being 'born again' carries both positive and negative connotations. John 3:16 is often quoted but must be understood in context. Abram's call signifies a shift from universal to particular in God's plan. Faith is an active, ongoing journey rather than a one-time event. The promise to Abram extends to all families of the earth, not just Israel. Justification by faith emphasizes relationship over law. Understanding the dualism in John helps clarify spiritual truths. The invitation to transformation is central to the Christian experience. The relationship with God is about being a blessing to others.   

John 3v16 speaks of God's love for the whole world, yet what leads up to that famous verse is a conversation with one individual—Nicodemus. Is our own view of God's love shaped more by his corporate love for the whole world or his intimate and personal nature? Taught by Ryan Doucet.

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, Pastor Jad explores Gospel of John 3:1–17 through Jesus' nighttime conversation with Nicodemus, inviting listeners to reflect on what it means to be “born from above.” Unpacking the rich symbolism and double meanings in John's Gospel: light and darkness, wind and Spirit, lifting up and exaltation, the episode examines how sincere faith can coexist with honest questions. Centered on John 3:16, Pastor Jad reframes this well-known verse within its broader context, emphasizing God's love for a confused and resistant world and clarifying that Jesus' mission is not condemnation but salvation. This conversation encourages listeners to release control, trust the movement of the Spirit, and embrace the transforming love of God that brings eternal life not just someday, but beginning now.  Join us on the free LivetheRhythm app to reflect on the scripture and find community with others. 

And, we're off! Thanks, everybody, for giving our renewed Lectionary.pro format a try. Please continue to offer your comments and suggestions. Just like the original Lectionary Lab, we want to be helpful to working preachers. (“Jesus and Nicodemus”, from the Seventh-Day Adventist Bible Discussion page)RCL Readings: • Genesis 12:1–4a; Psalm 121; Romans 4:1–5, 13–17; John 3:1–17Text Summaries• Genesis 12: 1-4aGod calls Abram to leave home, security, and everything familiar, and to trust a promise he cannot yet see fulfilled. The promise is bigger than Abram's private future: through him, God intends blessing for all families of the earth. Abram's obedience is strikingly simple — “So Abram went” — and that trustful response becomes the model of covenant faith. In Lent, this text frames discipleship as movement: leaving old certainties, walking by promise, and trusting God's future over present control.• Psalm 121This psalm is a confession of trust for travelers, pilgrims, and anyone feeling exposed. Help does not come from the hills themselves, but from the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth. The psalm repeats God's “keeping” care: God watches over going out and coming in, by day and by night, now and forever. Rather than denying danger, it places vulnerability inside God's faithful attention. In a Lenten key, it teaches believers to pray honestly about risk while resting in the God who does not slumber.• Romans 4:1–5, 13–17Paul presents Abraham as the prototype of faith: righteousness comes through trusting God's promise, not through human achievement or law-keeping. If inheritance depended on performance, promise would collapse; instead, it rests on grace so that it can include all who share Abraham's faith. God is described as the One “who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist,” grounding Christian hope in God's creative power. During Lent, this text shifts the center from religious scorekeeping to grace-shaped trust and hope.• John 3:1–17Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, sincere yet confused, and Jesus tells him that entry into God's kingdom requires birth “from above” — a Spirit-given new beginning, not mere religious competence. Jesus draws on Israel's wilderness story (the lifted serpent) to show that healing and life come through looking in faith to what God provides. The passage climaxes in God's love for the world: the Son is given not to condemn but to save. For Lent, this gospel invites people out of spiritual nighttime into rebirth, faith, and the light of God's saving mercy.Major Themes1. Faith before sight, or perhaps through sight (looking) when our focus is on God2. Promise grounded in grace3. New birth, new life in Christ4. God's keeping care in uncertain journeys5. Salvation as gift, not achievementPreaching ArcThe Call → The Keeper → The Promise → The New Birth1. The Call (Genesis 12): God calls us forward before we have full clarity.2. The Keeper (Psalm 121): We are sustained on the road by God's watchful care.3. The Promise (Romans 4): Righteousness and the future are received by faith, not earned by performance.4. The New Birth (John 3): God doesn't just improve us; God makes us new in Christ.From uncertain beginnings to Spirit-born life, faith walks forward on promise, kept by grace.A Sermon Outline“Called Before We're Ready”Core Claim: God calls us forward by grace, keeps us on the road, and gives new life through Christ.1. Opening: the discomfort of being called into the unknown2. Genesis 12: Abram's yes before clarity3. Psalm 121: God keeps us while we travel4. Romans 4: promise by grace, received by faith5. John 3: new birth is God's work, not self-improvementApplication: one step of trust this weekClosing: we go because God is faithfulOne-sentence takeaway: In Christ, we are called, kept, and made new — so we can take the next faithful step even without full certainty.An Illustration: Does anybody remember the Dunkin' Donuts commercial that featured a bleary-eyed baker rising early every morning, saying, “Time to make the donuts?” Believe it or not, that's a basic illustration of faith in something intangible. A baker starts work at 2:00 a.m. There is no smell of fresh bread yet, no customers, no visible result — just measured ingredients, kneading, waiting, and trust in the process. Hours later, what was unseen becomes nourishment (of a sort) for many.Preaching Bridge: “Faith is often bakery work: done in the dark, trusted before dawn.” (Image from the Upper Room, Discipleship Study Guide)Narrative Lectionary Text: John 13:1-17Text SummaryAt the supper before his passion, Jesus rises, takes a towel, and washes the disciples' feet. Peter resists, then overcorrects, and Jesus teaches that receiving him means accepting this upside-down pattern of love. Jesus, their Lord and Teacher, performs a servant's task and commands them to do likewise. Greatness in his kingdom is expressed through humble, embodied service.Themes Present1. Servant leadership — authority in Jesus is expressed through self-giving care.2. Love made concrete — love is not sentiment; it takes the form of action.3. Receiving before doing — discipleship starts with letting Christ minister to us.4. Humility over status — the gospel dismantles rank-driven identity.5. Imitation of Christ — “as I have done for you” is the shape of Christian community.Preaching ArcIdentity → Humility → Command → Community1. Identity: Jesus knows who he is and where he is going.2. Humility: Secure in that identity, he kneels to wash feet.3. Command: “As I have done for you, you also should do.”4. Community: The church becomes recognizable by practical, mutual, humble love.Because Christ stoops to serve us, we are formed into a people who serve one another.A Sermon Outline“The Towel and the Basin”Core ClaimJesus redefines greatness through humble service, and discipleship means receiving his love and then embodying it toward others.Big MovementStatus → Surrender → Service → WitnessOutline (7–8 min)1. Opening: Our instinct for rank• We naturally measure importance by visibility and control.• Jesus gives a different picture at the table.2. John 13: The shock of the scene• Jesus knows who he is and where he is going.• Precisely from that security, he kneels and washes feet.• True authority is not threatened by service.3. Peter's resistance: Why this feels hard• Peter resists being served.• Discipleship begins with receiving grace, not performing for God.• We cannot give what we refuse to receive.4. “As I have done for you”• Jesus moves from act to command.• Foot washing as pattern: embodied, practical, inconvenient love.5. What this means for a small (or any) congregation• Hidden service is central ministry, not secondary work.• Church health is measured by how we treat one another in ordinary moments.• The towel may look like meals, rides, prayer, repair, listening, forgiveness.Application for the week• Receive: where do I need to let Christ serve and cleanse me?• Serve: one concrete act of humble care.• Repair: one relationship step that lowers pride and raises love.Closing• Jesus is most recognizable when kneeling with a towel.• The church is most faithful when it does the same.One-Sentence TakeawayIn Christ's kingdom, greatness looks like a towel and basin: we receive his love, then kneel to serve.An Illustration: “The CEO with a Mop”A story gets told in leadership circles about a company after a major event: everyone leaves, trash is everywhere, and the cleaning crew is short-handed. One employee comes in early and sees the CEO quietly pushing a mop and picking up cups. No announcement. No photo. No speech. Just service.That moment reshaped the office culture more than any memo did. People said, “If he can do that, none of us are above serving.”John 13 is deeper than leadership technique, but the point lands: Jesus, knowing exactly who he is, takes the towel. Real authority is not threatened by humility.Preaching bridge: In Christ's kingdom, the towel is not beneath us. The towel is how love becomes visible. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lectionarypro.substack.com

Send a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt, for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the second Sunday in Lent: Genesis 12:1-9; Psalm 33:12-21; Romans 4:1-17; John 3:1-16. They discuss the call of Abraham, trusting in God, and Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus.Notes:--Death Resurrection and the Life to Come audio playlist--Reader's Theater Scripts--Lenten resources from Advent Anglican--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Lent 1--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectBible Project episodes of imagery of EdenLent: The Season of Repentance & Renewal, by: Esau McCaulley0:59  Collect9:59 Genesis 12:1-937:04 Psalm 33:12-2142:25 Romans 4:1-1749:33 John 3:1-16 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

Being religious is not the same as being transformed.In this message, John Gunter explores the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus in John chapter 3. Nicodemus represents the curious, the moral, and the spiritually serious. Yet Jesus confronts him with a truth that cuts through effort and heritage. Unless one is born from above, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.This sermon reminds us that salvation is not inherited, achieved, or reasoned into existence. It is received. God gives a new heart. The Spirit produces life. The invitation is not to control the process but to surrender to it.Key Themes:The difference between curiosity and transformationThe limits of religious effortThe promise of a new heart and new SpiritTrusting God rather than trusting our own systems

Our Student Pastor, Cody Mullins, kicks off our new sermon series Encountered By Jesus looking at the story of Nicodemus and how a secret encounter at night, changed this mans life forever. Thank you for listening to our podcast! We hope you have been encouraged today.Check us out on social media, or to learn more, you can visit our website at www.freedomcanyon.com.

John 3;1-17 shares a powerful and well-known story of Nicodemus, a Jewish leader and a Pharisee who believes that Jesus might just be Who He says He is! What do you think?

What does it really mean to be born again?In John 3, Jesus has a midnight conversation with a religious leader named Nicodemus—a man with status, knowledge, and reputation. Yet Jesus tells him something shocking: religion, heritage, and effort aren't enough. To see and enter the kingdom of God, a person must be born again—born from above—by the Spirit of God.In this message from Come and See (Part 5), we explore:-Why Nicodemus came to Jesus at night-What Jesus meant by being “born of water and the Spirit”-How new birth is a work God does for us, not something we achieve-Why eternal life begins with new breath-How Jesus meets us in our midnight moments with transformation, not condemnationThis sermon is an invitation—not to try harder—but to receive new life.

What does it really mean to be saved by grace?In this message, Pastor Nick Tallo walks through Ephesians 2:8–10 and reminds us that salvation isn't about trying harder, being better, or doing more religious activity. It's about receiving a gift.Many of us wrestle with big questions: Do you believe in an afterlife? How confident are you in what comes next? What is that confidence based on?We often only slow down enough to ask those questions in life's hardest or quietest moments. But God doesn't leave us guessing. Through His Word, He gives us clear answers.Ephesians 2 shows us that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. It's not something we earn. It's something we receive. Jesus offers us a brand-new identity, a new birth, and a new purpose.When Jesus talked with Nicodemus in John 3, He made it clear: salvation isn't about religious performance. It's about being born again and transformed from the inside out. And that transformation leads us into the good works God has already prepared for us.At 2Rivers, we believe Jesus is the lead story. Everything centers on Him and the life-changing grace He offers. Our prayer is that this message helps you take your next step toward becoming a passionate follower of Jesus.

John 3:1-15 • Chad FrancisScripture Reading (0:00) Intro (1:50)Nicodemus' Problem (7:31)Jesus' Solution (15:57)The Way Forward (42:47)

How does the Holy Spirit make us new? Well, when the Spirit enters our lives, the Bible describes this as us becoming a new creation. In John's gospel, we read the story of Nicodemus. who knew a great deal about God, but Jesus invited him to something much more life changing – a relationship with God. This happens by receiving the Spirit, being born again, and accepting Jesus as Lord and Saviour. Other words the Bible uses to describe this are renewal or regeneration. The Holy Spirit is active and at work in people's lives today, bringing fullness of life and hope. Are you alive, attentive and alert to what the Spirit is doing in your life and how the Spirit is inviting you to a deeper encounter with Jesus?

He Must Increase: John 3:22–36In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane explore John 3:22–36, where John the Baptist humbly declares, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” As questions of comparison and influence arise, John's response reveals a powerful model of humility, joy, and surrender.Together, they unpack what it means to live a life that points to Jesus rather than elevates self, how identity is secured in Christ—not position—and why true joy is found in making much of Him. This passage invites us to examine our motives, release comparison, and embrace a faith that celebrates Christ's increase above all.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Website: www.janewwilliams.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams

In this episode of The Postscript, Pastor Andrew Lovette and Pastor Ian Thomas discuss Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in John 3. They explore Nicodemus as a respected Pharisee who is spiritually blind yet genuinely engaged, and how John's night/light theme highlights his need for new birth. The episode focuses on Jesus' teaching that one must be born again—born of water and the Spirit—to enter the kingdom, tied to Old Testament new-covenant promises, cleansing, and baptism imagery. They also trace Jesus' authority as the Son of Man and connect Numbers' bronze serpent to Christ being “lifted up,” emphasizing saving faith as looking to Jesus.Books mentioned:https://www.amazon.com/Surprising-Genius-Jesus-Gospels-Greatest/dp/1433588366https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Great-Philosopher-Rediscovering-Wisdom/dp/1587434652

Today's passage is one of the "See For Yourself" passages Chapter 3 of Start Strong: A New Believer's Guide to Christianity. If all religions lead to God, why did Jesus have to die? This episode walks through John 3:14–21 to show why the cross is not one option among many, but God's gracious and necessary provision for a guilty world. Through Jesus' nighttime conversation with Nicodemus and the Old Testament story of the bronze serpent, we see why believing in Jesus is the only way to escape condemnation and receive eternal life. In this week's episode, we explore:The tension many Christians feel between “all religions are valid” and “Jesus is the only way” and why both cannot be trueHow Jesus challenges Nicodemus' assumptions about religion, knowledge, and spiritual rebirthThe wilderness story of the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 and how it prepares us to understand the crossWhat it means for the Son of Man to be “lifted up,” and why simply looking to Christ in faith is God's appointed way of rescueHow John 3:16–17 reveals God's heart: not to condemn the world, but to save it through His SonAfter listening, you'll come away with a clearer grasp of why the cross was necessary, why belief in Jesus matters so profoundly, and how your response to Him reveals the true condition of your heart.  Series: Start Strong: A New Believer's PodcastStart Strong: A New Believer's Guide to Christianity is available now wherever books are sold.Support the show

In Week 2 of Misfit Mindset, Pastor Josh Hersey unpacks the powerful truth that identity precedes activity, showing from 1 Peter 2, John 3, Romans 8, Colossians 3, and Romans 12 that we do not earn our place with God by performance but receive it through adoption into His family. Through the story of Nicodemus and the language of being born again, this message confronts the exhausting mindset of striving and replaces it with the freedom of sonship, reminding us that when we truly understand who we are in Christ, we begin to live differently on purpose. If you have ever wrestled with trying to do enough for God, this teaching reframes discipleship around intimacy, transformation of the mind, and learning to live from identity rather than for approval.   Did you accept Christ today? Fill out our digital connection card: https://churchontherock.net/connect-card

Nicodemus, Katja www.deutschlandfunk.de, Kultur heute

Pastor walks his children through Children's Catechism question 40—especially explaining how only God the Spirit can give us a new heart. Q40. Who can change a sinner's heart? The Holy Spirit alone. The lesson centers on the divine sovereignty of the Holy Spirit in regenerating the human heart, emphasizing that spiritual rebirth—being 'born again'—is an impossible human endeavor but a miraculous work of God alone. Drawing from Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, it distinguishes between physical birth (flesh) and spiritual rebirth (Spirit), affirming that only the Holy Spirit can transform a dead, sinful heart into a living, spiritual one. The passage highlights God's covenantal promise in Ezekiel 36, where He pledges to cleanse His people, give them a new heart of flesh, and indwell them with His Spirit, fulfilling His holy will for salvation. This spiritual renewal is visibly and sacramentally signified in Christian baptism.

Many people today seek to approach God on their own terms. Rather than asking what it truly takes to enter the Kingdom of God, we often assume we know what is best. We walk a path we have deemed worthy simply because it feels right to us. This mindset can lead to what I would call “soft universalism.” We may claim the name of Christ, yet quietly choose the parts of Scripture we like while setting aside the parts that challenge us. We begin to shape our own understanding of what it takes to enter the Kingdom of God and pursue that version instead. Tragically, this can lead to the sobering reality Jesus speaks of in Matthew 7, when some will hear the heartbreaking words, “Depart from me, I never knew you.” So the question still stands: How do we enter the Kingdom of God? Jesus, in His love and clarity, does not leave us without an answer. This week, as we dive into John 3:1–21, we will look at His interaction with Nicodemus, where He addresses this very question. Nicodemus wrestles with Jesus’ answer because of the spiritual darkness that blinds him—and, if we are honest, can blind each of us as well. Yet Jesus makes it abundantly clear that we must enter the Kingdom on His terms, not our own. Would you join us this Sunday and prayerfully prepare your heart to consider this life-shaping question: How do we enter the Kingdom of God? Pastor Brandon For this week's Scripture and notes: http://bible.com/events/49559550

John 3:1-21 A Religious man “Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews; this man came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” John 3:1-2 NASB A Religious Problem “Jesus responded and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someone is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a person be born when he is old? He cannot enter his mother's womb a second time and be born, can he?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless someone is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which has been born of the flesh is flesh, and that which has been born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.' The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it is coming from and where it is going; so is everyone who has been born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus responded and said to Him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered and said to him, “You are the teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things? Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know and testify of what we have seen, and you people do not accept our testimony. If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?” John 3:3-12 NASB A Real Solution “No one has ascended into heaven, except He who descended from heaven: the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes will have eternal life in Him. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but so that the world might be saved through Him. The one who believes in Him is not judged; the one who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the Light; for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light, so that his deeds will not be exposed. But the one who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds will be revealed as having been performed in God.” John 3:13-21 NASB

Tim Rice

We are studying some of the "Face to Face" encounters with Jesus in the Gospel of John, noticing how Jesus changed lives everywhere He went. This morning, we study the path of Nicodemus in John's Gospel. How did he come in contact with Jesus, and how do we see his faith grow?

Jesus & Nicodemus - John 3-1-21 by NewBranch

What if the “perfect resume” is actually keeping you from what you truly want? In John 3:1–15, Jesus meets Nicodemus—a man at the top—and reveals that his success is an obstacle, not a key, to the Kingdom of God. Whether you're an elite insider or a total outsider, find out why spiritual rebirth is the only way to get admitted.Come worship with Hillside Covenant Church LIVE at 9:00 & 10:45 AM both online and in person as Wayne Phillips teaches from John 3:1-15.This week's sermon notes are available at: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZtchl5ZqpeeJfkH9W0y1vRJMTKrXza4gFx7If you are new to Hillside and are looking for ways to get connected and build community, visit our website: https://www.hillsidecovenant.org/ We welcome you to Hillside and are so glad you joined us today!To give in support of Hillside Covenant and its ministries follow this link: https://hillsidecovenant.churchcenter.com/givingThe sermon from Hillside Covenant Church, Sunday, February 15, 2026.

What if the “perfect resume” is actually keeping you from what you truly want? In John 3:1–15, Jesus meets Nicodemus—a man at the top—and reveals that his success is an obstacle, not a key, to the Kingdom of God. Whether you're an elite insider or a total outsider, find out why spiritual rebirth is the only way to get admitted.Come worship with Hillside Covenant Church LIVE at 9:00 & 10:45 AM both online and in person as Wayne Phillips teaches from John 3:1-15.This week's sermon notes are available at: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZtchl5ZqpeeJfkH9W0y1vRJMTKrXza4gFx7If you are new to Hillside and are looking for ways to get connected and build community, visit our website: https://www.hillsidecovenant.org/ We welcome you to Hillside and are so glad you joined us today!To give in support of Hillside Covenant and its ministries follow this link: https://hillsidecovenant.churchcenter.com/givingThe full service from Hillside Covenant Church, Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Nicodemus, Katja www.deutschlandfunk.de, Kultur heute

Nicodemus, Katja www.deutschlandfunk.de, Kultur heute

6:02 - John 3:10, Why does Jesus say Nicodemus should know who he is already? / 10:06 - Why don't evangelicals celebrate Black History Month? / 16:32 - My friend truly hates jews, should I continue being his friend? / 30:10 - How should I witness to someone who doesn't know anything about God and is dying? / 42:10 - How can I be certain of my salvation? / 49:00 - My neighbor is flying a vulgar flag, what can I do?

IntroductionThe Canons of Dort is a theologically rich document that addresses critical questions about God's sovereignty and human free will. While it can unfortunately fuel argumentative "cage phase" theology, its true purpose is far more pastoral: to provide genuine consolation in knowing that God desires, chooses, and gives life to His people. This teaching isn't meant to create theological elites obsessed with debate, but rather to lead believers toward Scripture, submission to God's Word, and ultimately to His glory. The Canons address two extremes. The two extremes are hyper-Calvinism and Arminianism. Both of these extremes rob believers of assurance and leave them chasing their tails without real spiritual progress. Significant Observation - The Tension Between God's Universal Call and Particular WorkThe Canons of Dort do not aim to divide the church but to address real theological problems with precision. The challenge is that the Canons desire to remain helpful rather than overwhelming people with details. It reminds us that theological work should be done "with a view to the glory of God's name, holiness of life, and comfort of anxious souls.” Our temptation is to make a name for ourselves or win arguments.This creates an important tension visible in John 3: there's clearly a universal, sincere call in John 3:16 where God loves the world and offers eternal life to "whoever believes.” This has to be read in light of verses 1-15. John 3:1-15 makes it explicit that one will not respond to the Gospel without being born again. This is why Nicodemus struggles with the reality that one must be "born of the Spirit" to even see the kingdom. Both truths stand: the general call is real, and the particular application of Christ's work to God's people is also real. Like Nicodemus, an intelligent Pharisee who knew the Torah by heart, we must wrestle honestly with how these fit together. We must submit to Scripture (ministerial reasoning) rather than forcing Scripture into our philosophical boxes (magisterial reasoning). The complexity is real, and we're called to accept both truths even when we can't fully reconcile them with human logic.A Significant Freedom - The Spirit Works Like the WindWhen Christ tells Nicodemus that the Spirit "blows where it wills" like the wind, He's making a crucial point: we cannot control, predict, or harness God's work. The Greek/Hebrew word for wind and spirit is the same (pneuma), creating an intentional wordplay. Just as we don't fully understand or control the wind despite our scientific advances, we cannot determine when or how the Spirit will work in regeneration. We cannot control the wind. We cannot control the Spirit. This is both humbling and liberating for ministers and believers alike. We cannot twist God's hand or guarantee results through the perfect methodology or sermon. God normally works through the preaching of the gospel in the context of the church, but even this has exceptions. We immediately think of the thief on the cross, who likely never attended synagogue, given his lifestyle. The reference to being "born of water and the Spirit" points back to Old Testament promises in Ezekiel 36:27-28 and Jeremiah 31:31 about God giving His people new hearts. Christ rebukes Nicodemus as a "teacher of Israel" for not recognizing these prophetic promises. Christ is not primarily using water to teach about baptism, forcing God's hand, but about the Messiah as the one who confirms the new age. Christ is confirming the covenantal promises as predicted by Ezekiel. So, he is upset because Nicodemus should know this prophecy. He should see that Christ is the confirmation of God's promises. A Significant Consolation - Our Hope Rests in Christ, Not OurselvesHere's where the pastoral beauty of the Canons shines through. God's call in passages like John 3:16 and Matthew 11:28 ("Come to me, all you who are weary") is absolutely sincere. Christ is issuing a genuine invitation to all people to believe in Christ. We cannot know how many will be saved, and we shouldn't limit God's work. The call goes out to everyone.Yet there's profound consolation in knowing that when we do bow the knee to Christ, it's because we've been born from above by the Spirit. In moments of struggle, doubt, and anguish, we do not hope in the strength of our faith or our ability to persevere. Our confidence rests in Christ, in His Spirit, and in His power to uphold us until the end. God doesn't just dangle an unattainable carrot; He guarantees that the seed of the woman will enter His rest. When Christ teaches Nicodemus that His people will truly respond in faith through the Spirit's power, then we can be assured that we believe in Christ's power and not our own. Our confidence should never be in ourselves. ConclusionThe Canons of Dordt is honest in that it paints an unflattering picture of humanity: we're wretches who hate God and don't want to turn to Him. But it simultaneously reveals God's astounding mercy. God restrains sin, publishes the gospel, gives His Son, and calls all to believe in Christ. The assurance is simple yet profound: if you take hold of Christ by faith, He is your Redeemer and Savior. You have life in Him. Your sins are taken away in Him. We're not believing in our faith or in ourselves. We believe in Christ, who is the source of hope and gives the gift of faith. This is the "yes and amen" from the Canons: our ultimate consolation is found in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us walk in him believing we will overcome by His Power.

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Aprofunde seus estudos e viva a fé bíblica no seu dia-a-dia! Acesse: https://www.vivendoasescrituras.com.br/?&sck=spotify----------Acompanhe minhas redes sociais:Facebook - https://bit.ly/fb-augustus-nicodemusInstagram - https://bit.ly/ig-augustus-nicodemusTwitter - https://bit.ly/tw-augustus-nicodemusTenha piedade - #AugustusNicodemus

Today on the Northside Life Podcast, we're talking about the importance of being born again through the story of Nicodemus. We also dive deeper into the mission of belief. We hope you find this episode helpful and encouraging, and we'll see you next time.

John 12:23 And Jesus answered them, saying, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified." This is not what I would have expected to hear from Jesus had I been Philip or Andrew. I would have expected something like, “Great! Bring them to me.” or “Where are they? Take me to them, I'd be happy to talk with them.” Does Jesus' answer surprise you? What is it about some Greeks wanting to see Him that signals that the hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified? I'll give my two cents worth. Jesus knew that all things come from His Father and He only did what the Father showed Him. From His worldview, it was the Father who brought the Greeks to see Him. It's a sign that God loves the world, the non-Jews, just as He does the Jews. It's the fulfillment of what Jesus told Nicodemus when He told him that the wind (the Spirit) was going to blow where it wishes and that Nicodemus couldn't know where it was coming from or where it was going. The Son of Man was to be glorified by laying down His life for believers from every tribe, tongue, people, or nation. God gathered representatives from all the nations of the world to witness the righteousness of God placarded for all to see and believe. The Greeks' arrival told Jesus what the Father was doing. The hour had come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Jesus is glorified as we seek Him as our Savior and Lord.

We're so glad you're listening to our podcast! We are now in the season of Epiphany, the season of light. This sermon is based on John 3:1–21, the story of Nicodemus's nighttime conversation with Jesus, which includes one of the most famous verses in all of Scripture: John 3:16. We hope this sermon will be meaningful to you this week.To find out more about our church, you can head on over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.williamsburgbaptist.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have a moment, we'd also love for you to click over to follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.We are a small but vibrant and growing congregation, and there are lots of ways to connect. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can help support you in any way! Thanks so much for tuning in!

We appreciate you tuning into this episode in the 7th season of the Ray Reynolds Rap podcast. If we can pray for you in anyway please email us at rayreynoldsrap@gmail.com. If you are interested in a deeper, richer study of the Bible please download the FREE study guides available for a limited time. We also encourage you to sign up for a FREE Bible course for a comprehensive study of the entire Bible.The ministry of Reynolds Rap is meant to bring a message of inspiration and encouragement. Our hope it will bless you to find your calling and inspire you to engage in your own distinctive and personal ministry.  Our goal is to help mentor, coach, and motivate you.  We will do this through sharing Scriptures, Bible studies, blogs, podcasts, and LIVE videos.  Our website has many tools to help you in your walk with God to maintain an authentic Christian life (www.rayreynoldsrap.com).This podcast is partially sponsored by Peachtree Press LLC (www.peachtreepress.org), Getting To Know Your Bible (www.gettingtoknowyourbible.com), the Summerdale Church of Christ (www.summerdalechurch.org), and the Reclaiming Hope Ministry (www.reclaiminghopeministry.com).#ReynoldsRap #WixBlog #authentic #Christian #positive #practical #community #God #Jesus #Facebook #Twitter #Instagram #YouTube #Reddit #Substack #Christianity #ReclaimingHope #RayReynolds #MistyReynolds #counseling #PeachtreePress #inspiration #encourage #positive #rayreynoldsrap #reclaiminghopeministry #summerdale #churchofchrist #growinginChrist #story 

We stream live from our Fellowship Hall again this Sunday as repairs continue to the furnace in the Sanctuary. This weekend, we follow Jesus into another encounter—this time, with a woman who comes to draw water at an ancient well. The conversation between the Samaritan woman and Jesus is one of the longest in the gospels and she proves a much more formidable conversation partner than the religious leader Nicodemus. She offers us a model for our own encounter with the living water, the source of life. Rev. Lewicki, preaching.

In this message, we explore the life-changing conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus and discover how true discipleship is birthed, nurtured, matured, and passed on through godly conversations. This teaching reminds us that seeking Jesus leads to conversations with Him and about Him, that conversations clarify what silence distorts, and that restoration—not affirmation—is the heart of biblical discipleship. When our conversations are centered on Christ, both vertically with God and horizontally with others, they carry the power to remove limitations, reveal truth, and lead us into freedom in Him. Ultimately, discipleship doesn't only happen in conversations—but it never happens without them—inviting us to courageously engage in Christ-centered conversations that bring healing, clarity, and transformation.Scripture: John 3:1-10Speaker: Pastor Kyle HornerDid you make a decision to follow Christ today? We'd love to support you—email us at info@theconnectchurch.com.Learn more about The Connect Church and stay connected: https://linktr.ee/theconnectchurch

In “Born Again,” Pastor Dave Gustavsen explores Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a man who looked successful on the outside but knew something was missing. Jesus explains that real change doesn't come from trying harder or looking good on the outside, but from a new life God gives from the inside out. This new beginning is possible because of Jesus' sacrifice, and it's offered to everyone. We are invited to stop hiding, step into the light, and trust Jesus for eternal life. Dave Gustavsen | February 8, 2026Visit our website or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

In this sermon titled "Nicodemus: Reborn Not Reformed," we explore the transformative "Call to Rebirth" through the nighttime encounter between Jesus and one of Israel's most respected religious leaders. By examining John 3:1–19, we see that even those at the top of the religious and professional ladder can feel a "gap" in their souls that their credentials cannot fill. Jesus challenges Nicodemus—and us—to move beyond mere moral improvement and religious "mirror-polishing" toward a radical, spiritual heart transplant. This message highlights that the Gospel is not about "cleaning up" our old lives, but about allowing them to die so that we may be born again of the Spirit, stepping out of the shadows of cautious curiosity and into the full daylight of a life surrendered to Christ.    

Born Again: New Life from Above – John 3:1–21In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane dive into John 3:1–21, the iconic conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus. What does it truly mean to be born again? Together, they unpack the difference between religious knowledge and spiritual rebirth, the role of the Spirit in new life, and the radical love of God revealed through Jesus. This passage invites us out of striving and into surrender—where belief leads to transformation and darkness gives way to lightJohn 3:3 – “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”John 3:5 – “No one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”John 3:15 - "Whoever believes in him [Jesus] should not perish but have eternal life."John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son…”John 3:17 – “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world…”John 3:19–21 – Light vs. darkness—what we choose reveals what we believe.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Website: www.janewwilliams.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams

Wednesday, February 4, 2026 - John 7:1-52 | Jesus's teaching highlights the Holy Spirit as "living water" and the timing of His ministry, even amid division among the people. Adults can explore the Feast of Tabernacles' cultural context, reflect on His invitation to drink deeply from the Spirit, and consider Nicodemus's defense of Him.

In Week 4 of our Familiar Stranger series, Pastor Jason Britt shifts our focus to the inner strength available through the Holy Spirit. We often treat the Spirit as an optional guest, but Ephesians 3 reminds us that He is the source of our power, intended to dwell in our hearts through faith. Drawing from Paul's prayer in Ephesians 3:14-19, this message explores what it looks like to be "rooted and grounded" in God's love. It's not just about knowing about God; it's about being filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. If you have felt spiritually depleted or disconnected, this message will help you tap into the "glorious riches" of His strength.   Key takeaways from Week 4: Inner Strength: How the Spirit strengthens your "inner being" to handle outward pressure. The Dwelling: Moving from the Spirit visiting your life to the Spirit residing in your heart. The Dimensions of Love: Grasping the width, length, height, and depth of Christ's love that surpasses knowledge.  

What happens when the real problem in your life isn't cosmetic, but foundational? Using a cracked house as a metaphor, this passage shows how Jesus tells Nicodemus that no amount of self-reform or religious effort can fix what's broken—only a complete spiritual rebirth will do. In John 3, Jesus reveals that new life, made possible by God's love in Christ, is the only true foundation for transformation.

In a time that demands clarity and courage like never before, Touré Roberts unpacks a transformative truth: Boldness is birthed from how clearly we see. Drawing from John 3:1-13, this message reveals the journey from believing to knowing, where faith matures into radical confidence that brings heaven to earth. David didn't defeat Goliath through personality, but through perspective. His sight was recalibrated when he was anointed at an early age. He got vision before victory. Similarly, Nicodemus evolved from a confused observer to a bold advocate as his spiritual eyes were opened through encounters with Jesus. By the time he honored Christ's burial — though the crowds were gone and the cost was highest — Nicodemus had a knowing. Moving from believing to knowing, allows those who know their God to be strong and obedient in the things of the Lord. Like Elisha's servant seeing angelic armies, our prayers release heavenly resources when our eyes are enlightened to see beyond the natural. Message: "I See Angels, Part I” Scripture: John 3:1-13 (NKJV) Speaker: Touré Roberts Date: Feb. 1, 2026 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.

In a time that demands clarity and courage like never before, Touré Roberts unpacks a transformative truth: Boldness is birthed from how clearly we see. Drawing from John 3:1-13, this message reveals the journey from believing to knowing, where faith matures into radical confidence that brings heaven to earth. David didn't defeat Goliath through personality, but through perspective. His sight was recalibrated when he was anointed at an early age. He got vision before victory. Similarly, Nicodemus evolved from a confused observer to a bold advocate as his spiritual eyes were opened through encounters with Jesus. By the time he honored Christ's burial — though the crowds were gone and the cost was highest — Nicodemus had a knowing. Moving from believing to knowing, allows those who know their God to be strong and obedient in the things of the Lord. Like Elisha's servant seeing angelic armies, our prayers release heavenly resources when our eyes are enlightened to see beyond the natural. Message: "I See Angels, Part I” Scripture: John 3:1-13 (NKJV) Speaker: Touré Roberts Date: Feb. 1, 2026 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.