A few things jump out – I don't know how many times I have read this passage and not realized how awkward Jesus' response to Nicodemus is. Nicodemus, a teacher of the law, and a Pharisee, comes to Jesus to talk and starts by complimenting Him, which might get him killed based on what his friends want to do with Jesus. Yet Jesus starts right in on this whole second birth thing – incredible! Jesus knew why Nicodemus was really there and just decided to cut to the chase instead of goofing around at all. I love it.
Second, how many of you know John 3:16? How about John 3:17 or John 3:14-15? I think all these verses together would be good to memorize. Who wants to join me?
Another point is that John the Baptist was a very humble and amazing man. Not many of us would give up our glory for someone else. However, he understood his role and that Jesus was to be made number one. I love his response and what happens after this. It is pretty cool and sobering to me to see a man live this way.
Lastly, I think there is a careful distinction made here. I think it deals with judgment and sin. Jesus and John point out that man condemns himself by not believing in Jesus. This seems to be saying that God's wrath is towards sin and that man falls under it without the Son. Therefore, it is a lack of faith in the Son that stokes the wrath of God. What do you think about that?
It's kind of funny-- as I was reading John 3 I noticed the same thing. John 3:14,15, and 17 are just as significant as John 3:16. I even underlined John 3:17. Why do they only teach you verse 16 in church?
ReplyDeleteI think it is kind of scary that lack of faith in the Son stokes the wrath of God... that means that everyone around the world who doesn't have faith in the Son will spur God's wrath. That makes me really sad. All the more reason to spread God's love!