One More: The Religious (John 3:1-15)
Big Idea: You must have life from God if you are ever to have life with God.
Nicodemus was a respected religious leader who knew God’s law and devoted his life to following it. Yet Jesus revealed that even the most religious person needs something more than morality, knowledge, and obedience.
Religion can change our outward behavior without transforming our hearts.
1. The Necessity of New Life (John 3:1–4)
“Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (v. 3)
Our problem is not simply bad behavior but a sinful heart.
Religious activity and moral obedience cannot earn God’s acceptance.
We don’t merely need improvement; we need spiritual rebirth.
2. The Nature of New Life (John 3:5–8)
“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (v. 5)
Jesus describes the fulfillment of God’s New Covenant promise in Ezekiel 36:25–27.
This new life involves two things:
Cleansing: God forgives our sins and makes us clean.
Empowering: God gives us a new heart and the Holy Spirit, producing new desires and the ability to obey him.
The new birth is a supernatural work of God, not something we can accomplish ourselves.
3. The Source of New Life (John 3:9–15)
“Whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” (v. 15)
Jesus points to the bronze serpent in Numbers 21:4–9. Just as the Israelites looked to the lifted serpent for healing, sinners must look to Jesus Christ for salvation.
We cannot save ourselves through religious effort.
Jesus was lifted up on the cross to provide eternal life.
Those who trust in Christ receive the forgiveness and new life that only God can give.
Conclusion: Look to Christ Alone
Nicodemus had religion, knowledge, and morality, but he still needed to be born again.
Religion cannot save us. Only Jesus can forgive our sins, transform our hearts, and give us eternal life.
Application & Discussion Questions
Why is it sometimes harder for religious people to recognize their need for salvation than those who are openly sinful?
What is the difference between outward religious obedience and genuine spiritual transformation?
How can good things like church attendance, Bible reading, and serving others become substitutes for trusting in Christ?
Jesus says we must be born again. What does this teach us about our inability to save ourselves?
What evidence of the Holy Spirit’s transforming work do you see in your life?
How does knowing that God completely forgives our sins change the way we approach him?
What does the illustration of the bronze serpent teach us about faith in Jesus?
When you think about your standing before God, do you tend to look at your own performance or at what Christ has accomplished?
How should the reality of the new birth change the way we share the gospel with religious and irreligious people?
What is one area of your life where you need to depend more fully on the transforming power of the Holy Spirit?
