John 3: 1-17- The Proclamation of John the Baptist.
Nicodemus, a prominent Pharisee and teacher, comes to Jesus to ask him questions. He comes secretly (“by night”, v.2) because a man of his stature could not be see consulting Jesus. He has understood from Jesus’ miracles (“signs”) that Jesus is “from God”. But Jesus (in v.3) tells him that he has not yet understood the main point: to “see the kingdom of God”, spiritual rebirth is required. Nicodemus misunderstands: he thinks that Jesus is speaking of biological rebirth (v.4). Being “born from above” (v.3) requires being baptised (v. 5). “Flesh” (v. 6) and “spirit” were seen as constituents of life, of which spirit (breath, wind, pneuma) was the life-giving force. Many things can be seen only in their effect; such is birth in the Spirit (v.8). Still Nicodemus doesn’t understand: in order for him to do so, he needs to have faith (“receive our testimony”, v. 11). Then, in v. 12, Jesus says: you, Nicodemus, don’t comprehend what can be told in analogies (“earthly things”, i.e. “wind”, v.8), so how can you possibly believe mysteries? Vv. 13-17 are a monologue. Only Christ has descended and ascended. The “serpent” (v. 14) is mentioned in Numbers 21:9-11: the people were bitten by poisonous snakes; some died; others became gravely ill. Instructed by God, Moses mounted (“lifted up”) a bronze snake on a pole. Those who looked at this emblem (trusting in God) were healed, lifted up, given life. God in his love provides eternal life to all who believe (v.16). If you wilfully do not believe, you will perish (v. 18); there is no third alternative! God’s intention is that you believe, rather than be condemned (v.17).
© 1996-2025 Chris Haslam
Prayer of the Week
O Lord, who for our sake fasted forty days and forty nights: give us grace to use such abstinence, that, our flesh being subdued to the spirit, we may ever obey your godly will in righteousness and true holiness; to your honour and glory; who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, One God, world without end. Amen.