Scripture: John 3:1 (ESV) – “Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.”

The account of Nicodemus begins with his introduction as a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews. These details immediately establish him as a prominent and highly respected figure in Jewish society. He was a member of the religious elite, educated, moral, and likely admired by many. However, as the surrounding context reveals, even Nicodemus, with all his credentials and accomplishments, was lacking the one thing necessary: spiritual life.

The document emphasizes how Nicodemus, despite his piety and knowledge of the Scriptures, approached Jesus in spiritual darkness. This is underscored by his coming to Jesus “by night,” a detail that, as noted, likely carries both a literal and symbolic meaning. Nicodemus’s moral and theological accomplishments were not enough to bring him into the light of the kingdom of God. This sets the stage for the critical truth Jesus will reveal: human effort and knowledge cannot save; only the transformative work of God can bring new life.

J.C. Ryle would likely concur with this analysis, noting how Nicodemus represents the insufficiency of human righteousness to achieve salvation. His approach to Jesus demonstrates a recognition that something is missing, despite all he has attained. This reminds us that no amount of good works, knowledge, or status can substitute for the new birth that Jesus will describe in the verses to come.

For us, this verse challenges us to reflect on the things we may rely on—achievements, morality, or even religious knowledge—that cannot bring us into God’s kingdom. Nicodemus’s story is a call to humility, to recognize that only through Christ can we find true spiritual life.

Reflection Questions:

1. In what ways do you, like Nicodemus, rely on external accomplishments or knowledge in your walk with God?
2. How does Nicodemus’s story encourage you to come to Jesus, even with your questions or uncertainties?
3. Are there areas in your life where you need to move from spiritual darkness into the light of Christ’s truth?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us through Nicodemus that no human accomplishment can bring us into Your kingdom. Teach us to rely not on our own efforts but on Your grace and power to give us new life. Help us to come to You with humble hearts, trusting in Your truth to lead us out of spiritual darkness and into the light. May our lives reflect the transformation that only You can bring. In Your name, Amen.

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

Scripture: John 2:25 (ESV) – “And needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man.”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights this verse as a profound declaration of Jesus’ divine knowledge. Unlike any human being, Jesus did not require external testimony or observations to understand people. He fully knew the hearts, thoughts, and motives of everyone He encountered. This verse emphasizes both His omniscience and His ability to see beyond outward appearances to the true condition of the human soul.

Ryle points out that this divine attribute of Jesus is both comforting and convicting. It is comforting because we can approach Jesus with complete honesty, knowing He understands us fully—even the struggles and fears we cannot articulate. Yet, it is also convicting because there is no hiding from Him. Our sins, motives, and desires are laid bare before Him, requiring us to approach Him with humility and repentance.

This verse also connects to the preceding passage, where Jesus does not entrust Himself to those with superficial faith. Ryle underscores that Jesus’ perfect knowledge equips Him to judge rightly and to discern the sincerity of those who claim to follow Him. He is not swayed by flattery, appearances, or external actions but looks directly at the heart.

For us, this verse is a call to examine our own hearts. Do we approach Jesus with genuine faith and openness, or are we attempting to maintain a façade? It also encourages us to rest in the assurance that Jesus knows us completely and still loves us, offering grace and transformation to those who come to Him in faith.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does Jesus’ perfect knowledge of your heart challenge you to live with greater honesty and humility?
2. Are there areas in your life where you are trying to hide from God, and how can this verse encourage you to bring them before Him?
3. How does knowing that Jesus understands you completely help you trust Him more deeply?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for knowing us fully and still loving us unconditionally. Help us to approach You with honesty and humility, trusting in Your grace and power to transform our hearts. Teach us to live with sincerity, knowing that nothing is hidden from You. Strengthen our faith and help us to rest in the assurance that You understand our deepest needs and offer us Your perfect love. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:24 (ESV) – “But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people.”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, draws attention to Jesus’ divine knowledge and discernment revealed in this verse. While many believed in Jesus because of the signs He performed, He did not entrust Himself to them, knowing their faith was superficial and based solely on outward wonders rather than a true understanding of His identity and mission.

Ryle emphasizes that this verse reveals Jesus’ omniscience—His ability to see beyond outward professions and into the depths of the human heart. He was not deceived by appearances or impressed by crowds. Jesus knew that many who appeared to believe were driven by curiosity or a desire for miracles rather than genuine faith and commitment.

This insight challenges us to reflect on the sincerity of our own faith. Ryle warns that outward expressions of belief are not enough; true faith is characterized by a heartfelt submission to Christ and a deep trust in His saving work. Jesus seeks followers who love Him for who He is, not for what they can gain from Him.

The verse also serves as a reminder of Jesus’ wisdom and sovereignty. He is not dependent on human approval or understanding to fulfill His mission. His knowledge of the human heart underscores His ability to judge righteously and His patience in allowing faith to grow over time.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does this verse challenge you to examine the depth and sincerity of your faith in Christ?
2. Are there ways in which you might be seeking Jesus for what He can do rather than for who He is?
3. How does knowing that Jesus sees and understands your heart encourage you to grow in genuine faith and commitment?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for knowing us completely and for seeking a genuine relationship with us. Teach us to love and trust You for who You are, not just for what You can do. Help us to grow in sincere faith, submitting our hearts and lives to You fully. Thank You for Your patience and wisdom in dealing with us, and may our lives reflect a true and lasting commitment to You. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:23 (ESV) – “Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing.”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, reflects on the nature of the belief described in this verse. While many believed in Jesus’ name because of the signs He performed, Ryle cautions that such faith, based solely on miracles, can often be shallow and superficial. The people were drawn to Jesus’ power but may not have fully understood or embraced His mission as the Messiah.

Ryle emphasizes that signs and miracles, while important, were not meant to be the foundation of lasting faith. True faith is built on a deep conviction of who Jesus is—His divine identity and His saving work—not merely on His ability to perform extraordinary acts. Faith rooted in external wonders is vulnerable to fading when the signs cease or when challenges arise.

This verse also points to the compassionate nature of Jesus, who used signs to reveal His glory and draw people to Himself. Ryle notes that miracles were a gracious tool to open hearts and point to deeper spiritual truths. However, Jesus’ ultimate goal was not to dazzle but to call people into a life-changing relationship with God.

For us, this verse is a reminder to evaluate the foundation of our faith. Are we drawn to Jesus primarily for what He can do, or do we trust Him for who He is? It challenges us to seek a faith that goes beyond external signs and rests on the truth of His Word and His work of redemption.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does this verse challenge you to reflect on the foundation of your faith in Jesus?
2. Are there areas in your spiritual life where you rely more on outward signs than on a deeper relationship with Christ?
3. How can you cultivate a faith that is rooted in who Jesus is rather than in what He does?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Your glory through signs and wonders, but even more for showing us who You are. Teach us to trust You not because of what You do but because of who You are—our Savior and Redeemer. Help us to build our faith on the solid foundation of Your Word and Your finished work on the cross. May we grow in a deeper relationship with You each day, seeking You for Yourself and not just for Your gifts. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:22 (ESV) – “When therefore he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken.”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights this verse as a significant turning point for the disciples. While they initially did not understand the full meaning of Jesus’ words about the temple, His resurrection brought clarity and confirmation. In that moment, they remembered His teaching and believed both the Scriptures and Jesus’ words, seeing how everything fit into God’s redemptive plan.

Ryle emphasizes that the resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. Jesus’ prediction of His resurrection and its fulfillment validated His claims as the Messiah and the Son of God. The disciples’ remembrance of His words reveals the importance of holding onto the teachings of Christ, even when their meaning isn’t immediately clear. Over time, the Holy Spirit brings understanding and deepens faith.

This verse also underscores the harmony between Scripture and Jesus’ teaching. Ryle notes that the disciples’ belief was rooted in both the prophetic promises of the Old Testament and the words of Christ. This reminds us that faith is strengthened by studying Scripture and seeing how it points to Jesus.

For us, this verse invites reflection on the centrality of the resurrection in our faith. It encourages us to trust in God’s Word, even when we don’t fully understand, and to allow the truth of the resurrection to transform our belief and understanding of Christ’s mission.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does the resurrection of Jesus deepen your faith and understanding of His mission?
2. Are there teachings of Christ or parts of Scripture you find difficult to understand? How can you trust that God will bring clarity in His timing?
3. How does seeing the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus encourage you to trust in God’s promises?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for fulfilling Your promise to rise from the dead and for revealing the truth of Your mission to us through Your Word. Help us to trust in Your teachings and to hold onto them, even when we don’t fully understand. Teach us to see the harmony between Scripture and Your words, and may the power of Your resurrection strengthen our faith and transform our lives. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:21 (ESV) – “But he was speaking about the temple of his body.”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights this verse as a key explanation of Jesus’ profound statement in John 2:19. While the Jewish leaders fixated on the physical structure of the temple, Jesus was referring to His body as the true temple—the ultimate dwelling place of God on earth. This verse clarifies the spiritual depth of Jesus’ words and points to the heart of His mission: His death and resurrection.

Ryle emphasizes that Jesus’ body was the fulfillment of all that the temple represented. The temple was the meeting place between God and man, where sacrifices were offered for sin and worship was conducted. By calling His body the temple, Jesus declares Himself as the ultimate mediator between humanity and God, the perfect sacrifice for sin, and the true means of reconciliation and worship.

This verse also foreshadows the resurrection. When Jesus speaks of raising the temple in three days, He is pointing to His victory over death and His power to restore what was destroyed. Ryle notes that this truth is central to the gospel—Jesus’ resurrection is the foundation of Christian faith and the ultimate proof of His divine authority.

For us, this verse invites reflection on the significance of Jesus’ death and resurrection. It challenges us to see Him as the true temple, the One through whom we have access to God. It also reminds us of the transformative power of His resurrection, which brings new life and hope to all who believe.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does understanding Jesus as the true temple deepen your appreciation for His death and resurrection?
2. Are there ways in which you rely on external forms of worship instead of focusing on the relationship Jesus offers as the true mediator?
3. How can you live in light of the resurrection, trusting in Jesus’ power to bring new life and hope?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself as the true temple, the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. Teach us to worship You with hearts full of gratitude for Your sacrifice and victory over death. Help us to live in the light of Your resurrection, trusting in Your power to bring new life and transformation. May our faith rest firmly in You as the foundation of our relationship with God. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:20 (ESV) – “The Jews then said, ‘It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will you raise it up in three days?’”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, reflects on the Jewish leaders’ response to Jesus’ statement about raising the temple in three days. Their focus on the physical structure of the temple reveals their inability to grasp the spiritual meaning of His words. While they were preoccupied with the grandeur and time required to build Herod’s temple, they missed the deeper truth that Jesus was speaking of His own body.

Ryle emphasizes that this misunderstanding highlights the spiritual blindness of the Jews. They were consumed with external appearances and human achievements, failing to recognize that Jesus was pointing to His death and resurrection—the cornerstone of God’s redemptive plan. This verse serves as a reminder that spiritual truths often require faith and discernment, qualities that the Jewish leaders lacked.

The Jews’ incredulous response also contrasts sharply with the simplicity and power of Jesus’ words. Ryle notes that their fixation on the material world prevented them from understanding the eternal significance of what Jesus was teaching. Their limited perspective reminds us of the danger of focusing too much on earthly things while neglecting the spiritual realities of God’s kingdom.

For us, this verse is a call to open our hearts and minds to the deeper truths of Christ’s teaching. It challenges us to move beyond surface-level understanding and to seek the eternal significance of His words and works.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does this verse challenge you to focus on spiritual truths rather than earthly appearances or achievements?
2. Are there areas in your life where you might be misunderstanding or missing the deeper meaning of God’s work?
3. How can you cultivate faith and discernment to better understand and respond to Jesus’ teachings?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, forgive us when we, like the Jewish leaders, focus too much on earthly things and fail to see the eternal truths You reveal. Teach us to approach Your Word with faith and discernment, seeking to understand the deeper meaning of Your works and promises. Help us to trust in Your power to accomplish all things, even when it defies human understanding. Open our hearts to the eternal significance of Your mission, and may we grow in faith and wisdom each day. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:19 (ESV) – “Jesus answered them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, highlights the profound and prophetic nature of Jesus’ response to the Jewish leaders. When they demand a sign to prove His authority, Jesus speaks of the temple—not the physical building in Jerusalem, but His own body. This statement reveals a deeper truth about His mission and the coming transformation of worship.

Ryle emphasizes that Jesus is pointing to His death and resurrection, the ultimate proof of His divine authority. By referring to His body as the temple, Jesus teaches that He is the fulfillment of all that the temple symbolized: the presence of God, the place of atonement, and the means of access to the Father. His death would destroy the old order of temple worship, and His resurrection would inaugurate a new covenant, where worship is centered on Him.

The Jews misunderstood Jesus’ words, focusing on the physical structure of the temple. Ryle notes that this misunderstanding reflects their spiritual blindness and inability to grasp the significance of Jesus’ mission. They were preoccupied with the external and temporal, while Jesus was revealing eternal and spiritual realities.

This verse challenges us to see Jesus as the true temple—the One through whom we meet God and find forgiveness and reconciliation. It also invites us to trust in His power to bring life from death, hope from despair, and transformation from destruction.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does understanding Jesus as the true temple deepen your appreciation of His death and resurrection?
2. Are there ways you might be focusing on external or temporary things instead of the eternal truths of Christ?
3. How can you draw closer to Jesus, knowing He is the ultimate means of access to God?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself as the true temple, the One who brings us into the presence of God through Your death and resurrection. Teach us to trust in Your power to transform and redeem, even in the face of destruction or loss. Help us to focus on the eternal truths of Your mission and to worship You with hearts full of gratitude and faith. May we always find our hope and joy in You. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:18 (ESV) – “So the Jews said to him, ‘What sign do you show us for doing these things?’”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, draws attention to the response of the Jewish leaders to Jesus’ bold actions in cleansing the temple. Instead of recognizing the righteousness of His actions or reflecting on their own behavior, they demand a sign to justify His authority. This question reveals their spiritual blindness and resistance to Jesus’ mission.

Ryle points out that the demand for a sign was not unusual among the Jews, as they frequently sought miraculous proofs before they would believe (1 Corinthians 1:22). However, their focus on external signs often blinded them to the spiritual truths revealed in Jesus’ words and deeds. The cleansing of the temple itself was a powerful sign of His zeal for God’s glory and His role as the Messiah, but their hardened hearts prevented them from seeing it.

The demand for a sign also underscores the tension between human authority and divine authority. The Jewish leaders, concerned with their own power and control, failed to recognize Jesus’ rightful authority as the Son of God. Ryle emphasizes that true faith does not require constant external proofs but trusts in the revealed character and mission of Christ.

This verse challenges us to reflect on our own faith. Do we, like the Jewish leaders, demand signs or proofs from God before we trust Him? Or are we willing to recognize His authority and respond in faith, even when we don’t fully understand His actions?

Reflection Questions:

1. How does this verse challenge you to trust in Jesus’ authority without constantly seeking signs or proofs?
2. Are there areas in your life where you struggle to recognize and submit to Christ’s authority?
3. How can you cultivate a deeper faith that focuses on the spiritual truths of Jesus’ mission rather than external signs?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Your authority through Your words and actions. Forgive us when we demand signs or proofs instead of trusting in who You are. Teach us to recognize Your rightful authority over every part of our lives and to respond in faith and obedience. Strengthen our hearts to trust in the spiritual truths of Your mission, even when we don’t fully understand. May we honor You as our Lord and Savior in all we do. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.

Scripture: John 2:17 (ESV) – “His disciples remembered that it was written, ‘Zeal for your house will consume me.’”

J.C. Ryle, in his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels, focuses on how this verse reveals both the fulfillment of Scripture and the depth of Jesus’ passion for God’s glory. The disciples’ reflection on Psalm 69:9 connects Jesus’ actions in the temple to the prophetic words of the psalmist, emphasizing His role as the Messiah who is deeply committed to the purity of God’s worship.

The word “zeal” signifies an intense devotion and fervor. Ryle points out that Jesus’ actions in cleansing the temple were not driven by personal anger or frustration but by a consuming passion for His Father’s honor. The corruption and irreverence He observed in the temple provoked a righteous response, rooted in love for God and a desire to restore what was sacred.

Ryle also notes the disciples’ response to this moment. They remembered Scripture and began to see how Jesus’ actions fulfilled God’s Word. This highlights an important aspect of faith: recognizing how Jesus embodies and fulfills the promises and prophecies of the Bible. The disciples’ growing understanding of Scripture through Jesus’ ministry reflects how God uses events in our lives to deepen our faith and reveal His truth.

This verse challenges us to reflect on our own zeal for God’s glory. Do we share Jesus’ passion for honoring God in every aspect of our lives? It also encourages us to turn to Scripture, allowing it to shape our understanding of who Jesus is and what it means to follow Him.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does Jesus’ zeal for God’s house inspire you to honor Him in your worship and daily life?
2. Are there areas where your passion for God’s glory has waned, and how can you reignite that zeal?
3. How does seeing Jesus fulfill Scripture deepen your faith and understanding of God’s Word?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your consuming zeal for the glory of God and the purity of worship. Teach us to share Your passion for honoring God in all we do. Help us to approach Scripture with open hearts, growing in our understanding of Your truth and Your work in our lives. Strengthen our devotion to You, and may our lives reflect Your holiness and love for the Father. In Your name, Amen.

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*This devotional is based on J.C. Ryle’s insights from his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels.