Under New Management

Jesus confronted Nicodemus, a good and religious man, with this life changing truth: unless one is born again, born from above, born of the Spirit, he cannot see or enter the kingdom of God. This spiritual truth and hope continues to challenge and invite us today. Eternal life is given to all who believe in the name of Jesus, but what does it mean to believe? What does it mean to be born again? (John 3.1-21) August 4, 2024

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In this sermon, We delve into the transformative power of being "born again" as illustrated in John 3, where Jesus has a profound conversation with Nicodemus. We began by reflecting on the prophecy from Ezekiel, where God promises to cleanse us, give us a new heart, and put His Spirit within us. This sets the stage for understanding the necessity of spiritual rebirth. I shared my personal testimony, emphasizing how growing up in a Christian environment and being a "good" person wasn't enough until I came under "new management"—a metaphor for being born again.

Nicodemus, a Pharisee, teacher of the law, and member of the Sanhedrin, approached Jesus with respect but lacked understanding of what it truly means to be part of God's kingdom. Jesus' response was direct: "Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." This concept of being born again or from above was revolutionary and perplexing to Nicodemus, who believed his religious status and moral life were sufficient.

Jesus explained that being born of water and the Spirit is essential, drawing parallels to the prophecy in Ezekiel and the story of the bronze serpent in Numbers. Just as the Israelites had to look at the bronze serpent to be healed, we must look to Jesus on the cross to be saved. This act of looking and believing signifies a deep acknowledgment of our sin, acceptance of God's provision for salvation, and a transformative faith that leads to eternal life.

The conversation culminates in the famous verse, John 3:16, which encapsulates God's love and the promise of eternal life through belief in His Son. Jesus emphasized that the world is already under condemnation, and His mission was to save, not to condemn. The challenge lies in stepping out of darkness into the light, allowing God's works to be evident in our lives.

The key question we must ask ourselves is whether we are merely good and religious or truly born again and under new management. This new birth is marked by a life transformed by God's Spirit, where the works in our lives are clearly worked by God.