Scripture: John 3:21 (ESV) – “But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”

In contrast to those who avoid the light for fear of exposure, Jesus describes those who willingly come into the light. These individuals do not fear the truth because their hearts have been transformed by God. They desire to live in a way that honors Him, and their actions testify to the work of God within them.

The document emphasizes that coming to the light is not about being sinless but about being willing to be exposed and changed by God. Those who “do what is true” are not those who have achieved moral perfection but those who walk in honesty and repentance. Rather than hiding from conviction, they embrace it, trusting that God is at work in them.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, highlights that Jesus is not promoting salvation by works in this verse. Instead, He is describing the evidence of a heart changed by God. The phrase “carried out in God” reminds us that any good in us is not from ourselves but from His grace. Calvin also points out that this verse serves as a test of genuine faith—those who truly belong to God desire to live in His light, whereas those who resist the light reveal their rejection of Him.

For us, this verse is an encouragement to live openly before God, allowing His light to shape and refine us. It calls us to daily surrender, trusting that as we walk in truth, our lives will reflect His glory. Rather than fearing exposure, we can rejoice in the transforming work of God in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

1. What does it mean to you to “come to the light”? How does this shape your daily walk with God?
2. Are there areas of your life where you need to invite God’s light to bring conviction and transformation?
3. How does recognizing that our good works are “carried out in God” keep us humble and dependent on Him?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to walk in Your light. Help us to embrace the truth and to trust in Your transforming work in our lives. Give us the humility to bring every part of ourselves into Your presence, allowing You to shape us. May our lives reflect Your grace, and may we always remember that any good in us is the result of Your work. Teach us to live in a way that brings glory to You. In Your name, Amen.

This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:21.

Scripture: John 3:20 (ESV) – “For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.”

In this verse, Jesus continues to explain why people reject Him, the true Light. It is not merely indifference or misunderstanding that keeps people away from Christ, but an active avoidance. Sinful hearts fear exposure, and those who love wickedness will go to great lengths to stay in darkness rather than face the convicting truth of God’s holiness.

The document highlights that Jesus is not speaking about occasional sin but about a persistent rejection of the light. When confronted with the truth of God, the unrepentant sinner recoils because the light exposes what they would rather keep hidden. This is why some people resist the gospel so strongly—not because it lacks evidence or reason, but because it demands transformation.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, points out that this verse confirms the natural rebellion of the human heart. Calvin explains that those who live in sin hate the light because it makes them aware of their guilt. He also warns against the deception of false security—some may outwardly appear religious but still resist true conviction. The true test is whether a person humbly submits to Christ’s light or flees from it.

For us, this verse is both a warning and an encouragement. It warns us to examine whether there are areas in our lives that we are keeping in the dark, unwilling to bring them before Christ. But it also reassures us that while sin thrives in secrecy, the light of Christ brings freedom. The solution is not to hide but to come to Jesus, who offers forgiveness and renewal.

Reflection Questions:

1. Are there areas in your life that you hesitate to bring into the light of Christ? What holds you back?
2. How does understanding the reason why people reject the light help you to be patient and compassionate when sharing the gospel?
3. In what ways can you actively walk in the light, allowing Christ to continually transform you?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we acknowledge that sin thrives in darkness, but You are the true Light that brings freedom and life. Forgive us for the times we have avoided Your truth out of fear or pride. Give us the courage to bring every part of our lives into Your light, trusting in Your grace and forgiveness. Help us to be patient with those who resist the gospel, knowing that only You can open blind eyes. May we walk daily in Your light, reflecting Your holiness to the world. In Your name, Amen.

This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:20.

Scripture: John 3:19 (ESV) – “And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.”

Jesus now explains the reason for condemnation: it is not that people lack knowledge of the truth, but that they willfully reject it. He describes Himself as “the light” that has come into the world, yet many prefer darkness. This is a sobering reality—humanity does not simply fail to believe out of ignorance, but rather out of love for sin.

The document highlights the tragic irony in this verse. Christ, the true Light, has come to bring life and salvation, yet many reject Him, not because His message is unclear but because it exposes their sin. The love of darkness is not passive but active; it is a deliberate choice to remain in sin rather than embrace the transforming power of Christ. Jesus’ words make it clear: the issue is not intellectual but moral. People reject Him because they do not want their lives to change.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, emphasizes the depth of human depravity revealed in this verse. He points out that the coming of Christ is a test of the human heart. Those who belong to God rejoice in the light, but those enslaved to sin resist it. Calvin also notes that this verse shatters the notion that people are naturally inclined to seek God. Instead, apart from divine grace, they suppress the truth and cling to their own ways.

For us, this verse challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we fully embrace the light of Christ, or do we sometimes resist His truth because it convicts us? It also deepens our understanding of why people reject the gospel—not because it is lacking, but because it calls them to repent. This should stir us to pray for God’s Spirit to open hearts and to be patient with those struggling to leave the darkness behind.

Reflection Questions:

1. Why do you think people choose darkness over light, even when the truth is evident?
2. Are there areas in your own life where you resist the light of Christ? How can you bring them before Him?
3. How can this verse shape the way you share the gospel with others, knowing that rejection is often tied to a love of sin?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You are the true Light that has come into the world. Yet we confess that our hearts often resist Your truth. Forgive us for the times we have preferred darkness to light. Give us the courage to fully embrace Your presence, allowing Your truth to transform us. Help us to be patient and loving as we share the gospel, understanding that only Your Spirit can turn hearts toward the light. In Your name, Amen.

This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:19.

Scripture: John 3:18 (ESV) – “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.”

Jesus continues His conversation with Nicodemus by making a sharp distinction between those who believe in Him and those who reject Him. This verse presents two eternal realities: those who believe in Christ are free from condemnation, but those who do not believe are already condemned. The difference is not based on works or personal merit but on faith in Jesus as the Son of God.

The document emphasizes that this verse clarifies the nature of judgment. People often think of condemnation as something that happens in the future, but Jesus explains that unbelief itself brings present condemnation. Humanity’s default condition is one of guilt before God, and rejecting Jesus only solidifies this state. The gospel is not about neutral people being sorted into saved or condemned categories—it is about already-condemned sinners being rescued through faith in Christ.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, highlights that belief in Christ is the only means of escaping condemnation. He warns against the false assumption that people can remain undecided about Jesus. To reject Christ, or to remain indifferent, is to remain under judgment. Calvin also points out that Jesus’ words here show the seriousness of unbelief. The condemnation is not arbitrary—it is the natural result of rejecting the only source of salvation. Since Christ is the one and only Son of God, there is no alternative path to life.

For us, this verse is both a comfort and a warning. It reassures us that those who have placed their faith in Christ stand justified before God, free from condemnation. At the same time, it calls us to take seriously the reality of judgment for those who do not believe. It should stir our hearts with urgency to share the gospel, knowing that faith in Christ is the only way to eternal life.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does this verse shape your understanding of salvation and judgment?
2. Do you rest in the assurance that, through faith in Christ, you are free from condemnation? If not, what holds you back?
3. How does the reality of condemnation for unbelievers stir you to share the gospel with others?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for offering salvation to all who believe in You. We rejoice that through faith in You, we are no longer condemned but have eternal life. Give us a heart that is burdened for those who do not yet believe, and give us boldness to share Your truth with love. Help us to trust fully in Your name, the only name by which we can be saved. In Your name, Amen.

This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:18.

Scripture: John 3:17 (ESV) – “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

This verse beautifully expands on the message of John 3:16, emphasizing God’s purpose in sending Jesus. While many might expect a righteous God to bring immediate judgment upon a sinful world, Jesus declares that His mission is one of salvation, not condemnation. The heart of the gospel is revealed: God, in His great love, has provided a way for sinners to be saved through Christ.

The document highlights how this truth was particularly significant for Nicodemus and his religious contemporaries. Many Jews of Jesus’ time expected the Messiah to come as a conquering king who would judge and destroy Israel’s enemies. However, Jesus declares that His first coming is not to execute judgment but to offer redemption. This would have been a radical shift for Nicodemus, who, as a Pharisee, likely viewed righteousness in terms of adherence to the law rather than in the context of God’s mercy through Christ.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, underscores the incredible patience and grace of God displayed in this verse. Calvin explains that Jesus was not sent into the world to condemn because the world was already condemned in its sin. The law had already revealed humanity’s guilt, and apart from Christ, all were lost. Thus, Jesus’ mission was one of rescue, not ruin. Calvin reminds us that while judgment is real and will come in due time, the present offer of salvation demonstrates God’s deep desire that sinners turn to Him and be saved.

For us, this verse is a source of great hope. It reassures us that Christ’s purpose is to save, not to reject. Many people avoid coming to God because they assume He only wants to condemn them for their past sins. However, Jesus’ words make it clear: His mission is one of love and salvation. Those who turn to Him in faith will find grace, not judgment.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does understanding that Jesus came to save and not condemn change your view of God’s character?
2. Do you struggle with feeling condemned rather than embracing the salvation Christ offers? How can you rest in the truth of this verse?
3. In what ways can you reflect God’s heart for salvation by sharing the message of Jesus with those who feel distant from Him?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for coming not to condemn us, but to save us. We recognize that without You, we were already lost in our sin. Thank You for Your mercy and grace, offering us a way to be redeemed. Help us to rest in Your salvation and not live in fear of condemnation. Teach us to extend this same grace to others, pointing them to the hope and life found in You. In Your name, Amen.

This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:17.

Scripture: John 3:16 (ESV) – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

This verse stands as one of the most well-known and beloved declarations in all of Scripture. In a single sentence, Jesus captures the heart of the gospel: the immeasurable love of God, the gift of His Son, and the offer of eternal life to all who believe.

The document emphasizes the depth and initiative of God’s love. Unlike human love, which is often conditional or self-serving, God’s love is self-giving and sacrificial. He does not wait for the world to love Him first; He acts out of His own divine mercy. The phrase “God so loved the world” challenges any notion that His love is reserved for a select group—it is expansive, reaching sinners from every nation and background. His love is not just an emotion but is demonstrated in action: “He gave His only Son.”

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, highlights the undeserved nature of this love. He reminds us that the world, in its fallen state, was unworthy of God’s love, yet God still chose to send His Son for its salvation. Calvin also underscores the significance of the word “gave.” God’s love is not abstract; it is made tangible in the sacrificial death of Christ. The greatest gift ever given was the life of Jesus, offered on behalf of sinners.

This verse also presents a clear condition: “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” Calvin points out that faith, not works or merit, is the key to receiving this gift. To “believe” is not merely intellectual assent but wholehearted trust in Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of the world. Those who place their faith in Him are rescued from perishing—eternal separation from God—and are given the gift of eternal life, which begins now and continues forever in His presence.

For us, this verse is both an invitation and a challenge. It calls us to reflect on whether we have truly placed our faith in Christ and received the fullness of God’s love. It also reminds us that this love is not something to keep to ourselves but to share with a world that desperately needs it.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does understanding the depth of God’s love in giving His Son change your perspective on His character?
2. Have you fully trusted in Jesus as the only source of eternal life, or are you still trying to rely on other things?
3. How can you live in response to this great love, both in worship and in sharing the gospel with others?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving the world so much that You gave Your only Son for our salvation. Help us to grasp the depth of this love and to respond in faith, trusting fully in Jesus as our Savior. May we never take for granted the incredible gift of eternal life. Give us boldness to share this message with others, that they too may experience the joy of knowing You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s commentary on John 3:16.

Scripture: John 3:15 (ESV) – “That whoever believes in him may have eternal life.”

This verse encapsulates the heart of the gospel: the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. Continuing from the imagery of the previous verse, where the Son of Man must be “lifted up,” Jesus declares the purpose of His mission—to provide salvation for all who believe. This is the great invitation of the gospel: salvation is available to “whoever” trusts in Him, regardless of background, status, or past sins.

The document emphasizes the simplicity and breadth of this promise. Faith, not works or personal merit, is the key to eternal life. This truth is both humbling and liberating, reminding us that salvation is entirely a work of God’s grace. The phrase “eternal life” underscores not only the duration but the quality of life offered—a restored relationship with God, beginning now and continuing forever.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, reflects on the universal scope of this promise. He notes that the word “whoever” eliminates any exclusivity based on nationality, morality, or religious background. Faith in Christ is the only condition for receiving eternal life. Calvin also stresses the necessity of looking to Christ as the sole object of faith. True belief is not mere intellectual assent but a heartfelt trust in Jesus as Savior and Lord.

For us, this verse is both an assurance and a challenge. It assures us that salvation is freely offered to all who believe, but it also challenges us to examine the depth and authenticity of our faith. Are we fully trusting in Christ, or are we relying on other things for security and hope?

Reflection Questions:

1. How does the simplicity of the gospel—salvation through faith alone—challenge or encourage you?
2. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to trust fully in Jesus for eternal life?
3. How can you share the universal invitation of this verse with others who need to hear the gospel?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of eternal life, freely offered to all who believe in You. Help us to trust fully in Your finished work on the cross, recognizing that our salvation is entirely by grace. Strengthen our faith and deepen our gratitude for the life You give. Teach us to share this good news with others, pointing them to the hope and salvation found in You. In Your name, Amen.

*This devotional is based upon material from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Scripture: John 3:14 (ESV) – “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.”

In this verse, Jesus draws a powerful parallel between an Old Testament event and His own mission of salvation. He references the story in Numbers 21:4–9, where the Israelites, afflicted by venomous snakes, were saved by looking at a bronze serpent Moses lifted on a pole. Jesus explains that in a similar way, He must be “lifted up” so that those who look to Him in faith will be saved.

The document highlights the necessity and purpose of Jesus’ being “lifted up.” His crucifixion is not a tragic accident but a deliberate part of God’s redemptive plan. The lifting up of the serpent brought physical healing, but the lifting up of the Son of Man brings eternal life. The parallel emphasizes both the seriousness of sin and the sufficiency of God’s provision for salvation.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, elaborates on this typology. He notes that the bronze serpent had no power in itself but served as a sign pointing to God’s mercy. Similarly, Jesus’ death on the cross is the ultimate demonstration of God’s grace. Calvin emphasizes that just as the Israelites were saved by faith in God’s provision, so too are believers saved by looking to Christ crucified. The necessity of Jesus’ lifting up underscores the exclusivity of His sacrifice as the only way to be reconciled to God.

For us, this verse is a reminder to fix our eyes on Jesus, especially His work on the cross. It calls us to acknowledge the seriousness of our sin and to trust fully in His atoning sacrifice. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking in faith, we are called to look to Christ as the source of our salvation.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does the parallel between the bronze serpent and Jesus’ crucifixion deepen your understanding of God’s redemptive plan?
2. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to fully trust in the sufficiency of Jesus’ sacrifice for your salvation?
3. How can you more intentionally fix your eyes on Christ, especially in times of doubt or struggle?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for being lifted up on the cross to save us from sin and death. Help us to fix our eyes on You, trusting fully in the sufficiency of Your sacrifice. Teach us to see the cross as a demonstration of God’s mercy and grace, and may our faith grow stronger as we reflect on Your work of redemption. Thank You for the eternal life You offer to all who look to You in faith. In Your name, Amen.

*This devotional is based upon material from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Scripture: John 3:13 (ESV) – “No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.”

In this verse, Jesus clarifies His unique authority to teach about heavenly truths. Unlike anyone else, Jesus, the Son of Man, speaks from firsthand knowledge of heaven because He came from there. This sets Him apart as the only One who can fully reveal God’s purposes and bring humanity into a saving relationship with Him.

The document emphasizes that Nicodemus’s struggles with understanding heavenly things stem from his limited human perspective. Jesus, as the one who has “descended from heaven,” offers the ultimate testimony of divine truth. The imagery of ascending and descending points to the unique role of Jesus as the mediator between God and humanity, the One who bridges the gap created by sin.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, underscores the exclusivity of Jesus’ claim. He notes that no human effort, wisdom, or experience can grant access to the mysteries of heaven. Only Christ, who descended to reveal God’s will and plan of salvation, can make these truths known. Calvin also highlights the humility of Christ’s incarnation: though He had the glory of heaven, He descended to dwell among sinners to bring them redemption.

For us, this verse reminds us that Jesus alone is the source of truth and salvation. It challenges us to trust in His Word and authority, recognizing that He speaks with knowledge and power unmatched by any earthly teacher. It also calls us to marvel at the love and humility of the One who left heaven to bring us life.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does Jesus’ unique authority as the one who descended from heaven deepen your trust in His Word?
2. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to fully embrace Jesus as the ultimate source of truth and salvation?
3. How can you live in greater gratitude for the humility and love Jesus demonstrated by descending to save you?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for descending from heaven to reveal the truth and bring us into a saving relationship with You. Help us to trust in Your authority and to treasure Your Word, knowing that You speak from the fullness of divine knowledge. Teach us to marvel at Your love and humility, and may our lives reflect gratitude for all You have done. Strengthen our faith as we follow You, the only One who can bring us to the Father. In Your name, Amen.

*This devotional is based upon material from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*

Scripture: John 3:12 (ESV) – “If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things?”

In this verse, Jesus gently confronts Nicodemus’s unbelief. By referencing “earthly things,” Jesus likely alludes to the concept of being “born again” and the transformative work of the Spirit—a truth that, while deeply spiritual, takes place within the earthly realm. If Nicodemus struggles to understand this foundational truth, how can he grasp the deeper, more profound realities of heaven?

The document emphasizes the layered nature of Jesus’ teaching. The “earthly things” serve as an entry point, challenging Nicodemus to move beyond a purely intellectual or legalistic faith toward a Spirit-illuminated understanding. Nicodemus’s confusion highlights the human tendency to resist truths that defy natural reasoning or challenge established paradigms.

John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, reflects on the significance of Jesus’ distinction between earthly and heavenly truths. Calvin notes that Jesus is not dismissing Nicodemus but patiently guiding him toward a fuller understanding. The inability to grasp earthly things reveals the need for humility and reliance on divine illumination. Calvin also underscores that heavenly truths—God’s eternal plans, the nature of His glory, and the fullness of His kingdom—are far more profound and require a faith grounded in the Spirit’s work.

For us, this verse serves as both a challenge and an encouragement. It reminds us that faith begins with embracing the foundational truths of the gospel and grows as we trust God to reveal deeper realities. It also calls us to examine areas of unbelief in our lives and to approach God’s Word with humility, recognizing our need for the Spirit’s guidance.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does this verse challenge you to examine your understanding of foundational gospel truths?
2. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to move from intellectual understanding to Spirit-led faith?
3. How can you cultivate a deeper reliance on the Spirit to guide you into the “heavenly things” of God’s truth?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for patiently teaching us, even when we struggle to believe and understand. Help us to embrace the foundational truths of Your Word with faith and humility, trusting You to guide us into deeper understanding. Strengthen our hearts to receive both earthly and heavenly truths, and teach us to rely on Your Spirit to illuminate our minds and transform our lives. In Your name, Amen.

*This devotional is based upon material from a sermon by Pastor Chris Cousine*