Nicodemus

In the 3rd chapter of the Gospel according to John, we are introduced to a man by the name of Nicodemus. Nicodemus, also translated conqueror of the people, was a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin. He was described by Jesus as “the teacher of Israel,” implying he was well trained in Old Testament law and tradition. Nicodemus was a wealthy, educated, and powerful man—well respected by his people and a descendant of the patriarch Abraham. Yet Jesus said to him, “You must be born again” (John 3:7). The Greek adverb translated again can also mean “from the beginning” (suggesting a new creation) and “from above” (that is, from God). In other words, Jesus told Nicodemus that physical generation was not enough, nor could his descent from

The Pharisees were often proud and self-righteous. They looked down on those that did not meet their religious requirements. As for Nicodemus, he knew the law. He tried to live his life according to everything the law said. He wanted to keep every rule. He knew all there was to know about the religious system of the Jews. Despite all his remarkable religious exploits and high standards of morality and devoutness, Jesus says to him, “…Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3). Nicodemus demonstrated a righteousness generated by a dedicated mind and will to do well, yet all without the Holy Spirit. The righteousness that God demands cannot be produced by self-effort nor by striving in the flesh to obey God. Nicodemus had no concept of the grace of God, nor the concept of the new birth. He failed to understand that his wicked heart, which was received by inheritance from Adam, needed to be regenerated and created into the image of God. The rebirth is not outward but inward, it is not of the body but of the soul (John 3:6). Jesus likens the saving work of God through the His Spirit to the working of the wind. Just as no one knows whence cometh the wind, or “whither it goeth,” yet everyone the under its influence, can feel the effects of the wind, as such is the case with the