John 3:1-16
1. Let’s take a trip down memory lane. This may go way back into childhood or something not realized until one’s adult years. When was the first time you realized you were “good” at doing something in particular? It might have been a sense of accomplishment you felt after completing something. It may have been because of the encouragement or praise from a parent, teacher or peer. What was that “thing” and how did that realization affect your life?
2. Read John 3:16. What was Nicodemus “good at” - what were his accomplishments?
3. Nicodemus was a Jewish leader and a Pharisee. He had a place and identity in life. When he was confronted with the evidence that Jesus was clearly sent from God, it meant he had to do some deep thinking and consider that perhaps his life choices, admirable though they might have been, might keep him from discovering the most important truth of all.
According to John 3:1, what kind of life choices had Nicodemus made? Why do you think the direction he chose to pursue in life might have caused him to miss the reality of who Christ was?
4. Theologians differ concerning the motivation of Nicodemus. Some say he was deeply sincere in seeking truth as he sought out Christ by night. It is thought he simply wanted an uninterrupted quiet conversation. Others argue that Nicodemus was afraid or ashamed to be seen with Christ. Like many, it is possible that Nicodemus had fear of identifying with Christ in the daylight - in front of others. Yet, he had enough faith to approach Him under the cover of darkness.
What would cause Nicodemus to fear in identifying with Christ? What were the consequences then? What are the consequences now in our culture? What are the consequences for identifying with Christ in other cultures around the world?
5. Surely Nicodemus was a good upstanding citizen of his culture. Being a Pharisee likely meant a life of dedication, faithfulness, service, knowledge, piety, focus, and devotion - all of which are good things.
Are there good things in your life that are keeping you from that which is most important?
What life choices - even those that may be “religious” or “ministry-minded” in nature have presented obstacles to your spiritual growth?
6. Nicodemus needed clarification. He was honest when he asked, “what do you mean?” Nicodemus saw something in Christ that made him want to be around Him to hear and understand. There was something extraordinary in the life of Jesus. Nicodemus had honest questions for Christ.
What honest questions do you have for Christ?
7. Jesus gently rebuked Nicodemus and “put him in his place.” There is some thing about the light, purity and clarity of Jesus Christ that makes our worldly accomplishments small in comparison.
What worldy accomplishments, when compared to knowing and following Christ, are small in comparision? Do any of these accomplishments get in the way?
8. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
It is the will of God the Father that all come to a saving knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ. Read Matthew 28:18-20. This is called the Great Commission. As believers we are commanded by Christ to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations...” What is your role? What is in your way?
Gaebelein, Frank E. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 9 50
Henry, Matthew Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible 983
John 3:16 (New American Standard)
Matthew 28:18-20 (New American Standard)
Wiersbe, Warren The Bible Exposition Commentary 295
