Scripture: John 3:9 (ESV) – “Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can these things be?’”
This verse captures the incredulity of Nicodemus as he grapples with Jesus’ teaching about the new birth. Nicodemus, a learned Pharisee and teacher of Israel, is utterly perplexed. His worldview, centered on adherence to the Mosaic Law as the path to righteousness, is being turned upside down. Jesus’ words challenge him to recognize that salvation is not about human effort or merit but about a spiritual transformation that only God can accomplish.
The document emphasizes that Nicodemus’s question is not unique to him but reflects a universal struggle. Many people, when confronted with the radical grace of the gospel, find it hard to comprehend. Like Nicodemus, they ask, “How can these things be?” Salvation by grace through faith alone defies human logic, as it shifts the focus from what we do to what God does for us.
John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, underscores that Nicodemus’s confusion stems from his reliance on human reasoning and a legalistic understanding of God’s ways. Calvin emphasizes that the doctrine of spiritual rebirth should not have been foreign to Nicodemus. The Old Testament pointed to the necessity of a new heart and a new spirit, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 30:6 and Ezekiel 36:26. Nicodemus’s failure to grasp this teaching reveals the spiritual blindness that can result from pride in one’s knowledge or works.
For us, Nicodemus’s question is a reminder of the need for humility when approaching God’s truth. It challenges us to let go of our assumptions and trust in God’s Word, even when it defies our understanding. The new birth is a supernatural work of God, and our response should be one of faith and surrender.
Reflection Questions:
- How does Nicodemus’s struggle with Jesus’ teaching resonate with your own experiences of wrestling with spiritual truths?
- Are there areas in your life where you are relying on human reasoning instead of trusting in God’s supernatural work?
- How can you cultivate a deeper humility and openness to God’s Word, even when it challenges your assumptions?
Prayer:
Lord God, we confess that, like Nicodemus, we often struggle to understand Your ways. Teach us to approach Your truth with humility and faith, trusting in Your power to accomplish what we cannot. Open our hearts to the reality of the new birth and help us to surrender to Your transforming work. May we find peace in knowing that salvation is Your gift, not our achievement. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
*This devotional is from material found in a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*
Covenant Presbyterian Church 