Scripture to Read: John 3:9–15
Jesus continued to challenge Nicodemus, as we read in John 3:12–15, “If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven, but He who descended from heaven: the Son of Man. 14 As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; 15 so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life.” Jesus asked Nicodemus a great question because if Nicodemus was unwilling to believe Jesus when He told him about earthly things, how would he ever believe Jesus if He told Nicodemus about heavenly things? Then, Jesus confirmed for Nicodemus that He had descended to die for this lost world so everyone could have eternal life. We don’t know for sure, but Jesus could have been challenging Nicodemus to what God’s Word says in Proverbs 30:4, “Who has ascended into heaven and descended? Who has gathered the wind in His fists? Who has wrapped the waters in His garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name or His son’s name? Surely you know!” We know this is about God the Father, Son, and Spirit. Jesus wanted Nicodemus to understand that He had descended from heaven and had come to offer eternal life to everyone who would place their faith in Him. We know that Jesus is the Messiah (the Savior of the world), therefore, we are accountable to live for Him and share Him with this lost world.
Challenge & Application
• What was Jesus’ challenge to Nicodemus, and how did Christ challenge you concerning your daily obedience to Him?
• How are you living for Christ each day, and who are you seeking to lead to Him?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!