Day 3 of 21
Born Again
The New Birth from Above
Scripture Readings
Today's Reading
John 3 contains what is perhaps the most famous verse in the Bible — John 3:16. But this verse sits within a remarkable nighttime conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council. This chapter takes us to the very heart of the gospel.
Reflection
Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night — a detail John likely includes for symbolic as well as historical reasons. Nicodemus is a man in the dark, about to encounter the light. He is religious, educated, and respected, yet Jesus tells him that none of this is sufficient: "Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3).
"Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.'" (John 3:3)
The phrase "born again" can also be translated "born from above." Jesus is not talking about moral improvement or religious effort. He is speaking of something entirely new — a spiritual rebirth that only God can accomplish. Just as we had no part in our physical birth, the new birth is a sovereign work of the Spirit, who "blows where it wishes" (John 3:8).
Jesus then points Nicodemus to the Old Testament — the bronze serpent Moses lifted up in the wilderness (Numbers 21:9). Just as the Israelites were healed by looking upon the lifted serpent, so all who look to Jesus lifted upon the cross will receive eternal life.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
This verse reveals the staggering scope of God's love. It is directed toward the world — not just the righteous, not just Israel, but the whole rebellious creation. And the response it calls for is not achievement but belief — trusting, receiving, resting in what God has done.
The chapter closes with John the Baptist's testimony. When his disciples worry that Jesus is drawing larger crowds, the Baptist responds with one of the most beautiful declarations of humility in Scripture: "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).
Going Deeper
Ezekiel 36:25-27 prophesied a day when God would sprinkle clean water on His people, give them a new heart, and put His Spirit within them. Jesus expects Nicodemus, "the teacher of Israel," to recognize this. The new birth is not a novel idea — it is the fulfillment of what the prophets longed for. When the Spirit regenerates a human heart, He is doing what God promised centuries before.
Key Quotes
“You must be born again. This is not something you can do for yourself. It is something that must be done to you.”
“God loves us; not because we are lovable but because He is love.”
Prayer Focus
Father, thank You that salvation is not my achievement but Your gift. Help me trust in the Son You lifted up, that I might have eternal life.
Meditation
Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, full of questions. What questions are you bringing to Jesus today? Are you willing to let His answers reshape your understanding?
Question for Discussion
Nicodemus had impressive credentials yet Jesus told him he needed to start over entirely. How might religious knowledge or church involvement actually become an obstacle to genuine spiritual rebirth in our own lives and communities?