Originally I thought of selecting my favorite Keller sermons for the summer — but the truth is, THERE ARE SO MANY! So I have decided to continue on through John, selecting my favorites of his many MANY sermons on John. You may be thinking, “But John is so familiar — and I want something unfamiliar.” Yet Keller goes so deep, uncovering layers I had not seen, as he did in comparing the episodes of “Turning water into wine” and “Overturning the Tables.” So even though this week is perhaps one of the most familiar passages in Scripture, I believe you will see new things.
For example, I long puzzled over what he meant when He paralleled the new birth with being born of
The Water and The Spirit
Jesus said you had to have both to be born again.
I knew what the Spirit meant — but the water?
Was it baptism? I doubted it. The thief on the cross wasn’t baptized but was promised paradise. And we know it is by faith alone.
Was He talking about the first birth when the water gushes out and then the second birth by the Spirit?
No, again, I don’t think so.
It was when I read a commentary by D A. Carson that explained it was a quote from Ezekiel! The light turned on. Keller explains it in this week’s sermon. So come, I think you’ll learn some new things about this most important passage in John, and it will you to ponder, and for this most important passage to be implanted more deeply in your heart.
And just in case you haven’t seen this, it’s another side of Keller! 🙂
Keller preached this at the 2019 Conference of The Gospel Coalition: (But you can also download it from Gospel In Life:
You_Must_Be_Born_Again (Transcript of Above)
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week?
Monday: The Text
Prepare your heart with this:
3. Read 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3)
In a different sermon I loved on this passage, Keller says, “after Nicodemus says many nice things to Jesus, Jesus doesn’t say, “Well, I’ve heard so many good things about you too, Nick!” 🙂
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
Tuesday: Who Is It For?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions to “Where is it from?” Share any thoughts, not just the ones I address.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that?
My dear friend Sylvia was just here and told me about a tombstone that just said:
Satisfied
(Psalm 17:15)
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours?
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that?
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person?
Wednesday: Where Is It From?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions into “What Does It Do?” Share any thoughts too — not just the ones I address.
9. Keller talks about the”Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea” What does this mean?
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you.”
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new.
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought?
Thursday: What Does It Do?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions into “How Do You Know It Has Happened?” Share any thoughts too — not just the ones I address.
13. Keller uses Ezekiel 36 to explain what the water represents. What does he say and what are your thoughts?
14. If both represent two different functions of the Holy Spirit, of cleansing and renewing, explain how that happened to you both at your new birth.
15. Though this happens at the new birth, it is continuous. Can you think of a recent example of how you were convicted, cleansed at repenting, and then give strength or wisdom to go a different way?
16. He compares it to what a baby senses that is new coming out of the womb. If you were born again as a child you may or may not remember, but if you came as an adult you probably do. What did you see differently? And how did your motivations change?
17. In hearing testimonies of church planters, many said they didn’t hear the gospel in their church, but later understood. One even said Luther didn’t get it. What was Keller’s point — and how do you relate to this.
18. Keller tells the Spurgeon story in relating to Moses. What was his point?
19. What does a baby contribute toward his birth? Keller’s point?
Friday: How Do You Know It’s Happened?
Listen to the end.
20. How do we know Nicodemus life was changed?
21. What stood out to you from the close C. S. Lewis quote?
22. How has your life changed in the last five years that evidences the mighty power of the palingensia is at work in you?
Saturday:
23. What is your take-a-way and why?
119 comments
Sunday:
Oh, Dee! I am glad you posted this of TK and the gang! I saw this on Youtube last week but did not watch it right away. Sooo glad you included it here!
If we Christians have fun this way included, we can disarm the stereotypes that the world labels us with. Such as “always being party poopers, rigid, no fun, etc)” I tell myself often, “Loosen up, Bing! ” lol
Amen, Bing!! Love that you included the fun video!!! Love it!!
“I tell myself often, “Loosen up, Bing! ” lol
For years my husband has said to me “Lighten up Lulu!!” I have to remind myself as well to loosen up. 😊
I loved it — loved Pastor John too — and his son Mike saying “Still a dork.”
I really should have said, “ when we Christians,” rather than “if we… because I know we do have fun!
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I am excited to hear about the explanation of the water part! You are right, Dee. Some of the most familiar passages at times are lost on me. Lately, I feel like I am starting to peel each onion ring of my faith that was full of uncertainties and slowly getting to the crux of the matter (I believe somebody here used this metaphor a while back). For so many years of my Christian life, many truths were just in my head; I feel them traveling the few inches to my heart. I am thankful for the enlightenment brought about by the Spirit and how He continually uses you, this blog, and all of the ladies to be a part of that.
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week?
I had an opportunity to share my faith with a long-time friend who is of a different religion. She asked me about what I thought of the movie, The Chosen. And that she has begun to see Jesus in his humanity. She expressed her confusion about why so many of her friends do not seem to agree and consider it as just a ploy to convert somebody to another faith. We had a good talk. I have had her on my prayer list for some time now as someone that I am not sure if she is a Christian. She is a good person, but I do know that is not what salvation is all about. I remember experiencing the peace of God as I talk with her. I pray for a follow-up as I believe she is a seeker. She just retired and has had some health issues attributed to stress. Please pray for me as I continue to reach out to her.
What a wonderful conversation and God Hunt, Bing.
I will be praying for your interactions with her.
Thank you, Dee and Dawn!
Bing, This is so exciting to see people seeking the Father. I will pray that your continued conversations and friendship, will open her heart to Jesus.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? The toughness ahead this week about being born of the water and Spirit and the delight of video. I need the lightheartedness. I’m getting better but found out Friday I have Covid My husband has emphysema so have concerns he will get.
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week? This is a paraphrase from psalm 116 vs 17 and I can’t locate who authored it. I will offer sacrifice of thanksgiving in the courts of love. With the teaching on clearing the temple and Jesus reaction and reasons that we were desecrating His sacrifice it touches me that yes they are the courts of love.
Judy,Praying for your health with the Covid. And for your husband. I know it is a worry with lungs compromised by emphysema but if he gets it don’t hesitate to work with your doctor quickly. Steroids can be an important part of getting through it and recovery. Thats what helped my brother through.
thank you all very much.
I agree with Bev — praying!
Praying for you, Judy and for your husband as well.
Praying your husband stays well, Judy, and that you have a quick recovery!
Praying for a speedy recovery for you and for your husband to not get it.
I join the other ladies in praying for you and your husband, Judy.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
—Carpool Karaoke with Keller.
Well that was delightful. Just appreciated the light hearted memory of him with his family and a friend.
Look forward to getting into this week’s study and I think examining familiar is a good thing because we never know, like we learned from Tim Keller last week, that sometimes we see things in a whole different light and have fresh insights.
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week?
—This morning I had a deep and meaningful conversation at church with a with a younger gal that I used to meet with weekly before she and her husband moved to the east coast for his job. She has had some very hard things in her life physically and emotionally but in connecting with her again this morning as she shared her heart I heard how God is bringing healing and see Him moving her in a direction for her good and his glory. She has a deeper heart for God than the average person and has had deeper struggles as well. But God in his faithfulness is moving and working for good. He blessed me in my time with her by letting me be an encouragement to her which encouraged me. 💕
Love this sweet God hunt, Bev. Thank you for sharing.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The light-heartedness of Tim Keller and his friends, and I noticed he didn’t put his seatbelt on!! Buckle up!!
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week?
My husband, daughter and I just got home from FL late last night. We got the keys to my daughter’s apartment and went down there to get everything ready for when she moves next month. I noticed that outside of the door of one of her neighbors, two doors up, was this 2 foot tall wooden cross on a base. I noticed sticky note pads and a pen on the base, so I walked over and there were different Scripture verse references written down, and I thought maybe it’s also for people to write down a prayer request? Interesting.
You are observant! Not sure they were actually driving – – Pastor John was awfully casual if he was!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? I loved the Carpool Karaoke video. It’s fun to see the lighter side of people who I have only seen from a professional standpoint. My family does “dorky” things, too. Also I am excited to take a fresh look at the book of John. There’s no part of the bible that you can study too much.
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week? Although I haven’t been posting this past week, I have been following along and I love reading everyone’s posts. They are so well thought out and full of wisdom.
This week I was able to make what I hope was a sincere connection with my sister-in-law. My nephew (my brother’s and her son) committed suicide a little more than a year ago, my brother found him and they are both still having a difficult time. This past week their former daughter-in-law passed away. They had always remained close to her even after she and my nephew divorced (she and my nephew stayed very good friends as well). They are all Christians.
I felt as though God was helping me to be encouraging to her and not say anything that might be taken the wrong way. They have definitely heard enough” it’s time to move on” speeches (at least from my sister-in-law’s perspective).
Dawn, your brother and sister-in-law have had so much grief. I am sure that you offered them much comfort, encouragement, and a listening ear. And you are right in that she surely doesn’t need to hear “it’s time to move on” speeches.
Dawn, I know just being encouraging and showing love means so much for your brother and sister in law. Sometimes words are not necessary.
Dawn, Makes me sad how people are so quick to tell those who are grieving that it is time to move on. It’s not about when to move on it is about how to keep moving in the midst of grief. It is a unique blessing to sit under a son’s teaching of God’s Word. My husband and I both deeply appreciate our son in his role as pastor of our church.
Good response, Dawn!
Also when my son preached today, he started off saying how it was what he calls a God-incidence (as opposed to a coincidence) that the person who did the devotions before he preached chose to read from Ezra 1, which was what my son’s sermon was on (they don’t co-ordinate these things).
The devotion that I read before church was also from the first book of Ezra, so I knew that there was going to be something that I need to hear!
Dawn, I did not know that your son was a pastor. That must be wonderful to hear your son preach!
He got ordained this past October. I do enjoy hearing him preach. It’s usually about once a month.
Such a blessing for you, Dawn.
3. Read John 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
Verse 1: He was a man of the Pharisees, a ruler of the Jews.
Verse 2: He came to Jesus by night. He called Jesus “Rabbi”.
Verse 4: He is not a young man. He asks Jesus how a man can be born again when he is old?
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v.3)
In verse 2, Nicodemus told Jesus that because of the signs He is doing, he believes that He was sent by God as a teacher. Jesus, in verse 3, does not even speak about Himself or His miracles/signs. Instead, He replies that unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
Verse 5: Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. I also have wondered at the meaning of the water; does it mean natural birth or, as some say, baptism? What does it mean to be ‘born of water’?
Verse 6: That which is born of the Spirit is spirit. This “new birth” has something to do with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit can “birth”.
Verse 7: You must be born again, said Jesus. So this being born again is a requirement for something.
Verse 8: Jesus uses a metaphor of the wind blowing where it wishes, and we can hear the sound of the wind, but we can’t see the wind itself. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. This is a bit confusing to me as well, because it is “everyone” born of the Spirit who are compared with the wind.
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
When Nicodemus expresses confusion, Jesus says, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and you do not understand these things?” That’s kind of like telling your Algebra teacher, how can you be teaching this math when you don’t understand it yourself? Jesus says that He and his disciples have been witnesses to these things, yet Nicodemus (and the religious rulers and teachers) don’t receive their witness. They’ve been listening but not believing. Jesus tries to explain using earthly metaphors, and they don’t understand, so how can He speak of heavenly things with them?
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is His main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
When God sent poisonous snakes to bite the Israelites in the wilderness, He instructed Moses to make a bronze snake and mount it on a pole, and hold it up before the people. If anyone would look upon the snake and believe that God would heal him, that person would be healed and spared from death. In the same way, Jesus would be lifted up on the Cross, so that anyone who would look upon Him in faith, believing that He was God’s way of salvation, he would be saved. The Pharisees believed that you had to keep the law, plus a myriad of other rules and rituals, to make yourself worthy before God. Theirs was the way of self-works.
Susan, I like your analogy of an Algebra teacher. And the clarity of your answer to E. I struggle to articulate the points of a passage when I try to recount them. You do it well and it helps me.
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26. D.A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
God is talking about cleansing the Israelites from all their filthiness and idols with clean water that He will sprinkle on them. This does not seem to refer to being physically dirty (as in needing a bath). It seems to mean a cleansing from sin, from moral filth, from idolatry. More of an internal cleansing. Then God says that He will give them a new heart and put a new spirit within them; He will remove their hearts of stone and give them a heart of flesh. A heart of stone seems to perhaps mean a heart that is hardened and resistant towards God. A heart of flesh would be a tender, soft heart.
So what does the water mean? I’m still not really sure, but it seems to be a spiritual cleansing. I have a cross-reference to a passage in Numbers, in which some of the ashes from the burnt offering were mixed with clean water in a vessel, and then a hyssop branch was used to sprinkle things and people to make them clean. I don’t think the water refers to actual water, as in the water used in baptism, whether by immersion or sprinkling. Is there any possible connection to the fact that when the Roman soldier thrust the spear into Jesus’ side, both water and blood came out? Formerly, it was literal water that was used to cleanse, but Jesus would cleanse, as it were, by sprinkling us with His blood; again, not literally being sprinkled with blood. To be born of water and the Spirit is something that only God can do inside of a person to change them entirely into something new. Now I’m thinking of when the Lord was washing Peter’s feet, and Peter wanted a bath, and Jesus told him that he was already clean (because of Jesus making him clean).
I don’t think the sword incident is related, but I could be wrong. I do think the water represents cleansing, as John’s baptism represented repentance.
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions to “Where is it from?” Share any thoughts, not just the ones I address.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone. What did you think about that?
The late vicar of Everton’s tombstone says, “Reader, art thou born again? No salvation without the new birth. I was born in sin February 1716, remained ignorant of my fallen state until 1730, lived proudly on faith and works for salvation until 1754, was admitted to Everton vicarage 1755, fled to Jesus alone for refuge 1756, fell asleep in Christ January 22, 1793.” (Keller said instead of preaching on the text in John, he could just read this and pray and be done. It sums it all up.)
I think Keller used a great example here, because on a tombstone, in a simple way, the vicar’s (and our) spiritual journey is neatly summed-up. I also appreciate that the vicar’s journey included a period of time when he did have faith, but did not understand or grasp it fully, as he still believed he had to combine faith plus works. It takes time, I believe, to fully understand the gospel. I know I didn’t understand it all and probably still don’t. I still struggle very much with the awareness of my sinfulness and feeling like I’m always doing something wrong, which shows that I still haven’t fully rested my fate in Jesus’ arms.
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours?
I like to just read the name on a tombstone. When I visit my parents’ graves at the cemetery, I like to say their names out loud. I’m still here – someone who knew and loved them, and they still matter to me.
I was moved last year when I was in Durham Cathedral, in Durham, UK, at the tomb of Saint Bede, also known as the Venerable Bede. He is the only English man to have received the title of Doctor of the Church (by Pope Leo XIII). He died in 735 and was known as the greatest scholar of his times; he was a monk, teacher, poet, and writer. He wrote A History of the English Church and People, and also translated John’s gospel into the English language. Above his tomb in the cathedral are these words, taken from Bede’s commentary on the Book of Revelation, which express his faith and hope:
“Christ is the morning star who when the night of this world is past brings to his saints the promise of the light of life and opens everlasting day.”
I think this would be my most favorite inscription above a tomb.
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that?
I think the problem with that is that it creates a stereotype, or a caricature, of a person. Keller said that one might think oh, that’s a person who wants to get caught up in emotion or an emotional experience. Or, it’s the drug addict or alcoholic who goes to a conservative church to get moral structure. Born again is for people who are broken with messed-up lives. Or, born-again types are “knee-jerk conservatives”. So “born again” simply becomes a type of person. In my view, this leaves God out of the equation, and the focus is on a type of person who “needs” religion.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simply, unsophisticated person?
He was a member of the ruling Sanhedrin; he had wealth, power, position, status. He was not an ’emotional’ type of person. He was well-educated and was not a ‘broken’ person. Keller also said Nicodemus showed himself to be a very open-minded person (not a knee-jerk conservative) in that he came to Jesus, a man with no official pedigree or learning or status, and addressed him as “Rabbi” and clearly wanted to enter into a dialogue with Jesus. So he is open to new ideas.
Keller said that being born-again cannot mean that you need more morality or religion in your life. The new birth is, in fact, a challenge to morality and religion. (Jesus was challenging Nicodemus, the religious ruler) Nicodemus had all the morality and religion in the world, yet he needed to be born-again. Nicodemus wasn’t 3/4 of the way to heaven and just needed a spiritual supplement to get him all the way there. No – nothing he had done counted at all. He needed to be born-again.
No matter how good you are, no matter how broken and messed-up you are, you need to be born-again. Who is it for? It’s for everyone. That’s good news!
It makes me think of the prodigal sons; the broken one and the moral rule-following one who stayed at home. They both needed to be born-again.
Beautiful inscription!
I love all you wrote, Susan. I love your new photo too.
This especially touched my heart:
“Christ is the morning star who when the night of this world is past brings to his saints the promise of the light of life and opens everlasting day.”I think this would be my most favorite inscription above a tomb.
Monday: The text
3. Read 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
He was a Pharisee, a member of the Jewish ruling council. He came to Jesus at night. He believed that Jesus came from God because of the things that Jesus did.
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3)
In a different sermon I loved on this passage, Keller says, “after Nicodemus says many nice things to Jesus, Jesus doesn’t say, “Well, I’ve heard so many good things about you too, Nick!” 🙂
Nicodemus was skirting the issue of his need and beating around the bush asking if Jesus was from God based on things he has seen and heard. Jesus’ NS reply zeroed into his need-how to be a part of the kingdom of God.
Jesus knows our real needs and points us to Himself as the answer.
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
Being born again means one must be born of water and the Spirit. Only the Spirit gives birth to spirit. Being born again means entering the kingdom of God.
I find it interesting that Jesus uses the metaphor of the wind with being born of the Spirit. Come to think of it, when the Spirit prompts, like a nudge, one can say, now where did that come from? And in hindsight, we can know it is from God.
I was just thinking of a friend today who has had some health struggles. So I sent her a pm through FB. After I sent it, I checked her page and found out she has taken a fall and had a broken pelvis. It seems like when we are born of the Spirit, we are sensitive to his promptings. (Spirit nudges) rabbit trailing here.
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
Jesus is reminding Nicodemus that as Israel’s teacher, he should know these things. That the evidence is clear and should be accepted rather than explained.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
Just as Moses lifted the snake in the wilderness, Jesus would be lifted to die on the cross. The Pharisees thought the snake or even Moses is what will save them. They were asked to look at the snake and were healed. The Pharisees must have been thinking that if they follow the Mosaic Law, they will have eternal life. How easier it is to look to man for our “salvation”. Jesus offers Himself as the only way to salvation.
Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
I honestly don’t know. I don’t believe it is talking about water baptism as it cannot save anybody. But could it be that Jesus was talking about His shed blood since the verses talk about being cleansed from all impurities and idols? Only His sacrifice on the cross can cleanse us.
Or maybe because Jesus is the Living Water? Was He talking about accepting Jesus as the only one who can fill our thirst/need? Water after all is necessary for life.
I’m going to post something from D. A. Carson that may be helpful. But he may not be right either! I do think it symbolizes both the repentance the Spirit brings and that parallels the baptism of John and the Spirit coming into the believer which Jesus would bring.
Monday: The Text
3. Read 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
—Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a ruler of the Jews. (Verse 1)
—a man who came to Jesus during the night acknowledging him as coming from God (verse 2)
—Jesus tells him of the need to be born again to see the kingdom of God (verse 3)
—Nicodemus questions Jesus as to what that means. (Verse 4)
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3)
—Jesus doesn’t affirm himself to Nicodemus as being from God or having God with him in the things he has done. He doesn’t even acknowledge himself for truly who he is as God. Rather he ignores the compliments and goes right to the point of what it takes to become part of the kingdom of God. Jesus knew what Nicodemus’s heart need was and he addressed it right off.
In a different sermon I loved on this passage, Keller says, “after Nicodemus says many nice things to Jesus, Jesus doesn’t say, “Well, I’ve heard so many good things about you too, Nick!” 🙂
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
—We learn that what is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. The side reference in my Bible says the word for wind in Greek is the same word for spirit. So Jesus is saying the new birth of being born again is a spiritual work. And as the wind blows it takes the Spirit of God moving when and where He pleases to bring about spiritual birth.
Wiersbe notes that Nicodemus would have thought that just by being born a Jew in the flesh would save him and make him part of God’s kingdom. “Like most of his Jewish friends, Nicodemus thought that being born a Jew, and living according to the Law, would satisfy God.” Jesus was countering that thinking and telling him it required a work of God’s Spirit to see the kingdom of God.
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
—Jesus questioned Nicodemus as one of the well educated teachers of the Hebrew Law so why wouldn’t they understand these things he was saying. Jesus said I am telling these things that I know and have seen to you (plural) and you (plural) don’t believe me.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
—Jesus refers to the story from the book of Numbers in the Old Testament of Moses making a brass serpent and putting it up on a pole for the people who were afflicted by snake bites to look at and be healed. He says just like that snake being lifted up that the He the Son of Man would be lifted up and for anyone who believed in him for their healing from sin would have eternal life.
—His point was to tell Nicodemus that God’s plan for salvation from sin and the way to eternal life was by believing in Him and not in the old ritualistic ways of keeping the Law and the deeds of the flesh. Nicodemus like the Apostle Paul probably did that quite well.
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
—It would seem to me this is talking about a spiritual work of cleansing that is effected or caused by the work of the Holy Spirit to take away sin and completely remove the old idols of their lives. I don’t view the water as literal as in water used in baptism so I agree in that I don’t think of the water as signifying the ritual of baptism. Verse 26 refers to being given a heart change and a new spirit and the removal of a hardened heart for a soft heart. And that happens by what verse 27 says “And I will put my Spirit within you,… “ So I think the issue here in referencing the sprinkling of water is about cleansing from sin in a spiritual sense. In practicing the ceremonial laws the sprinkling of water mixed with the ashes of a red heifer were symbolic of cleansing from sin. A spiritual purification.
But in saying that I will be interested in what Keller and Carson have to say about it applying to Jesus’s comments in John because I have adhered to the thinking that when Jesus referred to the water he meant our physical birth. And as I have looked at it again it still reads that way to me. Hmmm?
That is basically what Carson says – -and Keller – -and I will post that. Nice to see you saw it yourself, Bev.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? I have listened to part of the sermon and have enjoyed so many of your comments. I am looking forward to this lesson, because this is an area that I have always found confusing. I love how Keller always researches things that bring new light to the scriptures. We are never too old to learn new truths. I am loving this summer study!
2. How have you experienced the presence of the Lord in your life this week? We had a sweet encounter with a two former students and their family, when we were eating in a restaurant. It was delightful and sweet. They are all very involved in Missions and Cole, who was a former student of my husband, wanted a photo with him. I also knew his younger brother, Cody, from my days in the Library. It was such a nice “God hunt” reunion. I knew their mom and grandma too, so we all got logs of hugs.
You’ve touched so many lives, Patti.
I would have to say that so many of these families have touched our lives. 🙂 I so see God’s hand in our journey.
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)a Pharisee member of Jewish ruling council He came at night suggesting not wanting to draw attention he was seeking Jesus out. Recognition that Jesus was from God. Didn’t understand Jesus point of being born again.
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3) The word non sequitor Hopefully I’m learning what it means Nicodemus is talking about Jesus being from God and Jesus response which seems to me to be unrelated talks to him about being born again.
In a different sermon I loved on this passage, Keller says, “after Nicodemus says many nice things to Jesus, Jesus doesn’t say, “Well, I’ve heard so many good things about you too, Nick!” 🙂
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have? No one can enter kingdom of God unless born of water and the Spirit, must be born again, Spirit gives birth to Spirit, wind blows wherever it pleases, you can hear it but can’t tell where it comes from or where it’s going, just as everyone born of the Spirit What born of water means and what vs 8 means
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13? You are Israel s teacher and you don’t understand these things? We speak of what we know and testify what we’ve seen but you don’t accept our testimony. I’ve spoken of earthly things and you don’t believe how will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life? Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert so Son of Man must be lifted up. Moses lifted up snake and they were saved. Jesus was lifted up and we are saved from our sin. The Israelites had rules, regulations and sacrifice system they followed to get eternal life.
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why? God will cleanse us from our impurities giving us a new heart of flesh sensitive to His touch and Spirit. It is God s work and not our working out our own salvation.
Great answers. Great too to understand non-sequitur because it is pretty much a pattern with Jesus, showing how high above our ways are His ways.
Monday
3. Read 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
Man of the Pharisees (vs 1)
Ruler of the Jews (vs 1)
Came to Jesus by night (vs 2)
Called Jesus Rabbi (vs 2)
He knew Jesus was a teacher come from God by the signs that He did (vs 2)
Questioned how a man can be born again when he is old…can he enter a 2nd time into his mother’s womb and be born? (vs 4)
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3)
Instead of responding that He is from God, He gets right down to the heart of the issue…”unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
One must be born of water and the Spirit (this statement has always baffled me, but I knew it wasn’t in reference to baptism as I know baptism doesn’t save you). That which is born of flesh is flesh and that which is born of Spirit is spirit. You must be born again (Even though Nicodemus marveled at this, Jesus wants him to realize that he does not have it. Being a religious leader, a Pharisee and educated, by all outward appearances he looks like he’s already transformed but he’s not). The wind blows where it wishes, you hear it but don’t know where it comes from or where it goes…so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit (how the Spirit works is a mystery and is different with each individual).
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
Are you the teacher of Israel and you don’t understand these things? We tell what we know and have seen, yet you won’t believe our testimony. If you don’t believe what I tell you about earthly things, how can you possibly believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
Just as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness (if the people were bitten by a serpent all they had to do was look upon the bronze snake on the pole and they’d live) so the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life.
The Pharisees thought that keeping the law, doing good works and having the appearance of being transformed was how they gained eternal life. “You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy – full of greed and wickedness.” Luke 11:39
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
A cleansing that takes place on the inside…a new heart and a new spirit. Removing the stony, stubborn heart and given a tender responsive heart.
Sharon, I’ve often wondered where the idea that baptism saves you comes from — I know there is one verse that says he that believes and is baptized is saved — but the rest of Scripture is completely opposed to that — so I think that has to be interpreted in the context of the mass of verses that say it is faith alone. What are your thoughts, Oh wise one?
Dee, it always amazes me who God has put in my path to challenge what I was taught as a child which has caused me to dig into scripture for myself. Our next door neighbor is a pastor of a church/denomination that teaches you must be baptized to be saved. The verses they use are Mark 16:16, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” The reason for condemnation is unbelief not a failure to be baptized. Acts 2:38, “And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This verse gave me pause until I considered the whole book of Acts and concluded that Peter is not putting repentance and baptism as concurrent conditions for salvation. The last verse is 1 Peter 3:21, “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” What Peter is corresponding baptism to is in the former verse where it talks about Noah and his family being brought safely through water in the ark. The act of baptism doesn’t save us but rather symbolizes God’s work of salvation in the believer’s life. Baptism is an act of obedience in response to God saving us not an added work we must do be saved. Titus 3:4-7, “But— When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.”
This is so excellent, Sharon. I love your insights. I am more silent this week, but reading all the comments and getting so much inspiration an insight. Thank you. I am copying and saving this. 🙂
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings) He is a Pharisee (v. 1) He’s a seeker (v.2). and a teacher (v. 10).
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3) Nicodemus was commenting on how everyone knows that Jesus is a teacher from God and Jesus answers about how we must be born again.
In a different sermon I loved on this passage, Keller says, “after Nicodemus says many nice things to Jesus, Jesus doesn’t say, “Well, I’ve heard so many good things about you too, Nick!”
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? That it involves water and Spirit and that it is a mystery.
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13? That Nicodemus is a teacher and yet he doesn’t understand the Gospel.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? Just people had to turn their eyes to the lifted up snake to be saved, so shall people need to turn their eyes to Jesus wheo was lifted up on the cross.What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life? The main point is that salvation comes through faith through the Lord’s sacrifice, where the Pharisee’s taught that it was thru obedience and following the rules.
3. Read 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
He was a Pharisee. V1
He was Jewish. V1
He came to speak to Jesus at night. V2
He aligns with Jesus. V2
He questions Jesus. V4
He is old. V4
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3)
Nicodemus acknowledges Jesus’ authority from God.
He tells him that he must be born again to enter heaven.
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
To be born again you must be born of ware and the spirit.
Humans only give life to humans.
The Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.
It is a mystery how people are born again.
I guess the water represents the human birth and the spirit represents heavenly birth?
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
He questions that Nicodemus doesn’t understand even though he’s a respected teacher.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
He tells the story of Moses having the authority by God to show the people so they would believe. Here He is saying that He will be lifted up so they will believe. The Pharisees believed in good works and following rules to get to heaven.
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
A renewal of our souls? A washing clean to make us worthy? To get rid of our idols?
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that?
Interesting. It sort of tells the story of a “regular” guy who tells a tale of a life that could be any of our lives (other than the vicar part).
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours?
Not sure about a “favorite” thing? I have not considered it. I like names, it makes me feel connected to the person. Our town is old and sometimes the streets or buildings were named after the people I see in the graveyards. I like that.
I still struggle with whether it’s ok to be cremated (based on the Bible), so I haven’t thought too much about a gravestone. If I’m cremated I would want to be buried, none of this scattering stuff. I know God would put me together for the coming of Christ. But it creeps me out to think I would be (potentially) all over the place! I also tease my husband that he could keep me on the mantle, but I would haunt him 😉.
I love the song “King of Kings” and one line strikes me as something to put on my tombstone:
”In His freedom, I am free.”
Hillsong Worship
https://youtube.com/watch?v=dQl4izxPeNU&feature=sharec
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that?
Anyone can be born again, not just those of us with “issues.”
All the morality in the world won’t help you be born again. Nothing you have done counts. It doesn’t matter how messed up or good you are, it won’t get you to heaven.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person?
He was open to new ideas. He was a wealthy, high status man. Not an emotional or broken type person. He did not need any moral structure. He came to Jesus, who was not known. He respected Him.
Of course there should be a song on your tombstone! 🙂
Love this Praise song, Laura and “In His freedom, I am free”
Everyone. This is from D. A. Carson’s “Commentary on New Testament Use of The Old Testament” a reference book Keller recommends and I use quite often.
“The first significant portion in John 2:23 to 4:42 involves the reference to being “born again/from above in 3:3 and “born of water and the spirit in 3:5. Most likely this passage constitutes an allusion to Ezekiel 36:25-27 which presages God’s cleansing of human hearts with water and their inner transformation by the Spirit. (See also Isaiah 44:3) It is this spiritual reality of which Nicodemus, Israel’s teacher ought to have been aware. The personal pronoun of “you” are plural in the Greek.”
This is helpful for me to see the importance of water as representative of cleansing which a necessary and crucial part of the spiritual work of salvation or being born again. The spiritual work of salvation doesn’t just save us but it also cleanses us from sin. I don’t mean sins (our acts) but our sinful flesh that we are born with. As human flesh we are born with a “sin” problem. “Flesh gives birth to flesh” And that has to be cleansed. By the water of regeneration That is the spiritual work of the Cross when we see our need and turn to Christ to be saved. The power of the Cross cleanses our “sin” problem and the “Spirit gives birth to spirit”. Carson’s commentary is definitely helpful. Thank you Dee.
Thanks, Bev.
Thank you for this, Dee. I keep reading this part over. I love that following the cleansing with water is a new heart and a new spirit. I think these three things go hand in hand throughout scripture. In Psalm 51, David (in response to his sin with Bathsheba) is asking God to cleanse him from sin, for his sin (as all of our sins) are ultimately against God. God requires truth in our inner most being; and wisdom. He goes on to pray for God to create in him a clean heart and do not take the Holy Spirit from Him. This sounds so much like a reference to our personal relationship with our Father, which we must continually renew on this earth. When Keller refers to the Palingenesis, it sounds like to might have to wait for the new Heaven and new earth, to totally have the Perfect relationship with our Bridegroom.
Tuesday: Who Is It For?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions to “Where is it from?” Share any thoughts, not just the ones I address.
—I really appreciated this statement.
“Do you see what the good news is? No matter how good you are. No matter how pulled together you are. You must be born again. But it also would mean, no matter how messed up you are, no matter how broken you are, you can be born again.”
The contrast of a person being morally as close to perfect as possible in this flesh or a person as the opposite being a reprobate mess both need the new birth. His point is that no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born again.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that?
—It is a wonderfully succinct assessment of the man John Berridge’s life span and the truth of the gospel and the need to be “born again”. As the tombstone said there is “no salvation without the new birth”.
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours?
—I honestly don’t have a favorite off the top of my head even though occasionally like here in this sermon I have been made aware of what someone has put on theirs. I have not given it much thought as to what I would want said on my own. Where I live tombstones basically give the name and the dates of birth and death. Or the trend in the recent years is to add a picture of some kind or an etching related to a person’s life. But I think it is well worth considering what I would want to say on my tombstone. I would need some time to think on that.
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that?
—It stereotypes the “born again” people into a certain kind of person when in reality “no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born again”.
But as John 3:16 says “that whoever believes in Him shall not perish”.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person?
—He was the epitome of a person who had it all and had it all together.
3. Read 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings) John 3:1 Nicodemus is a Pharisee, a ruler of the Jews; 3:2 he came to Jesus at night, perhaps ; 3:2 He believed that Jesus was sent by God, as a teacher, because no one could perform such signs if He was not of God. 3:3 Nicodemus was older.
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3) Nicodemus was asking Jesus about coming from God and Jesus answer was about being born again in order to see the kingdom of God.
In a different sermon I loved on this passage, Keller says, “after Nicodemus says many nice things to Jesus, Jesus doesn’t say, “Well, I’ve heard so many good things about you too, Nick!” 🙂
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have? You cannot be born again unless you are born of water and the Spirit; If you are not born of the water and the Spirit, you cannot enter the kingdom of God; The Holy Spirit works through those who are born again….I think verse 8 is very mysterious. I always love “wind” references concerning God. We cannot see the wind or God, but we can hear it and see what it does. We cannot see the Holy Spirit, yet it changes the heart of one who is filled with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is Sovereign and work of the Holy Spirit cannot be totally understood.
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13? Jesus tells Nicodemus that if he is a teacher and he cannot understand or believe the earthly things that He, who descended from heaven, is saying, how can he understand heavenly things.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life? The Lord used Moses and the snake to intercede for the sins of the people, when those who were bitten looked upon it they lived. As the people who looked upon the snake and had faith were saved, Jesus is pointing to Himself giving His life on the cross for us, so that those who look upon Him and believe in Him may have eternal life. The Pharisees felt that they could earn eternal life by keeping all the rules and rituals of the Jewish religion.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that? Its length for a tombstone. That without explanation it is summarizing the passage.
My dear friend Sylvia was just here and told me about a tombstone that just said:
Satisfied
(Psalm 17:15)
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours? I like the example you have given us.
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that? Being born again is not a call to more moral and religious structure. No matter how good you are or no matter how messed up you are, you must be born again. Being born again isn’t for particular types It s a call to everyone.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person? He would have been from wealthy elite upper class yet open to new ideas
3. Read John 3:1-16
A. What do you learn about Nicodemus in verses 1-4? (Give verse references to support your findings)
He was a Pharisee ruler (v.1) He came to Jesus at night, seeking answers, and called Him Rabbi (v.2) He asks Jesus how a man can be born a second time. (v.4)
B. How does Jesus reply to Nicodemus with a non-sequitur? (v. 3)
Jesus tells him that unless he is born again he cannot see God’s kingdom.
C. What are all the things you learn about being born again in verses 5-8? What comments or questions do you have?
You must be born of water and the Spirit.
“The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.”
The Spirit chooses where it will go, who will be born again.
D. What gentle rebuke does Jesus give in verses 10-13?
Although he is the teacher of Israel, he does not understand or believe heavenly truths.
E. What comparison does Jesus make to the story of Moses lifting up the snake? What is his main point? (Verses 14-16) How is this different from how the Pharisees thought you should get eternal life?
The Pharisees thought eternal life came from following rules, living “right”, obedience to the Law. Jesus references His own sacrifice on the Cross and salvation through repentance and faith in Him as Savior.
4. Read Ezekiel 36:25-26 D. A. Carson and Keller say Jesus is quoting this when he talks about the water and the Spirit. On the basis of this, before you listen, what do you think the water means and why?
Thinking through the attributes of the “water”, it comes from God—”I will sprinkle”—He is the active one, the source.
It is “clean”-pure, undefiled.
It cleanses us from all “uncleannesses”—only the blood of Christ, the work of the Spirit can do that.
It brings new life.
So something related to salvation, the cleansing blood of Christ? I think we did this once and I thought blood then & was wrong. Oh how I will love having a good memory in heaven!
It is mysterious, but you weren’t wrong about blood. 1 John 1:7 says His blood purifies us from every sin, and Hebrews 9:14 says the blood cleanses our consciences. I do think the water in John 3 is a reference to Ezekiel’s quote and that it represents the cleansing of the Spirit when He leads us to repent. But even D. A. Carson doesn’t sound absolutely positive, but it makes the most sense to me. I’d be interested in your views on baptism since you’ve been part of good churches that believe differently about it.
Have I really confused you now?
So nice to see you back, Lizzy. I love your thoughts on the water and the blood. As many verses in the Bible, it is mysterious to me. I have not answered that question yet. 🙂 I keep reading the Ezekiel verses and I also like verse 27 :”I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances. ” My Bible also references Psalm 51, which speaks of cleansing and purifying.
Lizzy, You got me thinking of properties of water. I tell my children and students that “water is life!” It really is….
There are 3 states on Earth (solid, liquid, and gas).
It is polar (has attractive properties).
It dissolves more than any other solvent.
AND….
It has the highest heat capacity, meaning that it takes a long time to heat up and a long time to cool down. This is why if you live near a body of water, your air temperatures don’t fluctuate as much.
Love that you are sharing your science on water, Laura!! Thank you! I agree! Water is life!
Laura–LOVE when you bring your smart scientific brain thoughts! YOu always give me so much more appreciation for things like water!
Wednesday: Where Is It From?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions into “What Does It Do?” Share any thoughts too — not just the ones I address.
—I found it interesting that John in his gospel rarely used the term “Kingdom of God”. So when he relates that Jesus used it in talking with Nicodemus it has significant meaning.
9. Keller talks about the”Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea” What does this mean?
—He says Palingenesis was a technical term that the Greeks used and it meant the regeneration of the world. To them it meant like a reset and starting over new.
Jesus used it in a completely different way meaning “at the renewal of all things” once and for all. It will be the end of death, suffering, sin and evil.
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you.”
—His words: “it’s the future coming into you. It’s God’s, present in your heart now. It’s that renewing regenerating power by which God is going to heal everything and remove all evil and all sin and everything. But it comes into your heart now. Only partially, but actually. And that’s what it means to be born again. “
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new.
—First I “know” I have been born again. I have assurance of my salvation. It’s settled in my heart and mind and it’s God’s Word that gives me that assurance.
“Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.”
1 John 5:12-13 ESV
—The second thing is the “hope” I have. Again it is God’s Word that affirms God as my hope and the source of it.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”
Romans 15:13 ESV
I see hope as the thing that makes, as Keller said “God’s future present in my heart right now”.
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought?
—As a Pharisee he would have thought the kingdom of God was something in the future and that the Messiah would bring it in at the end of time when He took over and made every right.
Little did Nicodemus know he was talking to the very Messiah and the kingdom of God was starting to be made known to him.
9. Keller talks about the”Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea” What does this mean?
A renewal of the world; when the Kingdom of God comes.
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you.”
The new birth is coming into you. God’s future coming into your heart now. It’s only partial now but will be fulfilled when Jesus comes back to Earth.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that? I think that it would give anyone pause for thought, even believers who may be in the works righteousness step.
My dear friend Sylvia was just here and told me about a tombstone that just said:
Satisfied
(Psalm 17:15)
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? The person’s name.
My favorite is “I knew if I waited around long enough something like this would happen” on George Bernard Shaw’s tombstone. What might you want on yours? Free at last!
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that? It simply isn’t true. There are people from every walk of life that are born again.
My grandma was born, raised and lived her life as a faithful Catholic. Later in life she started going to bible studies and prayer meetings at a Pentecostal church (my mom referred to them as the holy rollers) while still faithfully attending her Catholic church and praying the rosary every night. When it came time to plan her funeral my aunt mentioned the Pentecostal people and my uncle said, “Oh, that’s right she was one of those “born again” people.” So she definitely shared that aspect of her life with others.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person? He was highly educated, very wealthy, and highly regarded
Interesting about your Grandmother!
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions to “Where is it from?” Share any thoughts, not just the ones I address.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that? John Berridge has an awakening or rebirth at about the age of 40, when he fled alone to Jesus for refuge. I love that this vicar continued to be a seeker, until He was filled with the Holy Spirit and began to rely totally on Jesus.
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours? I love that he “fled” to Jesus! I like this and hope to be there: I belong to Jesus. I am in the shelter of the Most High.
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that? It puts Christians in a box or category.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person? Nicodemus was of an elite status, he was a wealthy, respected Pharisee; He knew the Jewish laws, he was of a high moral structure, he was open minded and curious about Jesus.
9. Keller talks about the”Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea” What does this mean? I’m confused Palingenisea to Greeks meant cyclical reset of world, but Jesus uses it in Matt 19 referring to when He sits on His throne and there is fullness of regeneration and the end of death and suffering. Paul use same term in Titus says that new birth is from the future the power God is going to use in the future is brought into my present.
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you.” Gods future present coming partially into my heart now
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new. Well I’m less of a mess than what I used to be. I respond to people and situations differently. Thr love and patience God gives me for people has be from God.
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought? Nicodemus saw it as something in the future and the end of age when all things would be made new. It was not something that would be part of his present reality.
Interesting about “cyclical reset of the world” — I think of it, in part, as back to Eden, yet better still for Jesus body was not just “reset” but better still after the resurrection.
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours?
I remember hearing that Spurgeon’s tombstone has a verse from my (and his) favorite hymn, “There is a Fountain” (and it was my favorite hymn even before I knew it was his favorite! 🙂
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that?
Jesus challenges the thought that new birth is only for a certain type of person. It is not for the morally broken or the new jerk conservative nor the emotional type. “No matter how good you are. No matter how pulled together you are. You must be born again… no matter how messed up you are, no matter how broken you are, you can be born again.”
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person?
He was a Pharisee ruler with all the credentials.
9. Keller talks about the”Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea” What does this mean?
The Greek term palingenesia, meant the regeneration of the world. The Kingdom of God is the one regeneration that will be the end of all death, suffering, sin, and the end of evil.
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you.”
The new birth is that future regeneration God is working, brought to us now, in the present.
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new.
God has been doing a lot of restorative work in my life, especially this last year. It has reminded me of our house we finished building last year. I feel as though He has uprooted and torn down all the old walls, stripped to the studs and then demolished all the old, clearing it out and has begun the work of a new foundation. Things hidden for years have been uncovered and brought to light, washed and renewed.
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought?
As a Pharisee, Nicodemus would have thought of the Kingdom as being in the future, that the Messiah would bring at the end of time.
Your answer to 11 reminds me of the C. S. Lewis quote about he thought God was just going to fix the leaks and floorboards but then his whole house was being demolished!
oh Dee! yes! that’s exactly it! 😉 I love that quote, I had to go look it up!
“Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on; you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently He starts knocking the house about in a way that hurts abominably and does not seem to make any sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of – throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were being made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. He intends to come and live in it Himself.”
I so relate to this, Lizzy!!! 🙂
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new.
Well, we have people living with us who have betrayed in the past (our daughter and her husband). In the long ago past, it would have taken me a very long time to forgive her for all the pain she inflicted on us. I would have even thought I could ever forgive her.
Recently, I have been snubbed by some at our church. In the past, I would have gotten upset and even mad. Now, I give them grace (they are focused on the task) and think that “whew! I have less to do now 😉.”
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought?
He would have judged those who were not fulfilling the scriptures of the Old Testament rules. There would be no grace when it came to breaking the rules.
Such evidence of the supernatural in you, Laura.
Tuesday: Who Is It For?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions to “Where is it from?” Share any thoughts, not just the ones I address.
”This isn’t a call to more moral and religious structure…you must be born again. Nothing you have done counts.” This seems to be such a hard concept especially for many Christians. We want so badly to mix into being saved with what we have done. This is where I really struggle with the “lose your salvation” idea because you’re really saying, I must do something to keep my salvation and then it becomes works/righteousness. We had an older gentleman in our former church who was afraid to die because he was afraid he had a sin in his life that he hadn’t confessed and would go to hell. That’s a result of the “lose your salvation “ teaching. Please know that I’m just scratching the surface with this post in regards to this subject, there is so much more.
5. Keller opens with an inscription from a tombstone? What did you think about that?
We are all a work in progress. I would love to know the story from, “living proudly on faith and works for salvation in 1754,” to “fled to Jesus for refuge in 1756?”
6. What is your favorite thing on a tombstone? What might you want on yours?
I don’t have a favorite.
7. Keller says that many people have a certain kind of person in mind as a “born-again” Christian. What is the problem with that?
It keeps people from having an open mind.
8. How did Nicodemus not fit the mold of a needy, simple, unsophisticated person?
He wasn’t the emotional or broken type and he was open minded to new ideas.
Love the answer to the first statement, Sharon. I like that you brought up the struggle with “lose your salvation …..and works/righteousness.” It brings to mind Matthew 18:2-4..this is NIV version: He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Trusting and unpretentious….
That would be an interesting conversion story to know from the man of the 1700’s. Tomorrow I am speaking at a funeral of a man with that story and some of his children are not believers — how I pray for God’s anointing!
Dee, prayers for God to give you His power and His words as you speak at the funeral.
Praying for the Lord to anoint you and be close to you as you speak at this funeral, Dee.
Praying 🙏
Thank you all — so thankful for your prayers!
My identity is received not achieved. What a resting place. I don’t have to strive to be better.I received the identity of child of God.
13. Keller uses Ezekiel 36 to explain what the water represents. What does he say and what are your thoughts? Water represents the Spirit new birth is having the Spirit implanted in you. Confusing for me then it’s like saying born again in the Spirit and the Spirit, but then maybe it’s saying having new sense of surroundings because of having Spirit implanted in me and a new identity.
14. If both represent two different functions of the Holy Spirit, of cleansing and renewing, explain how that happened to you both at your new birth. God through His Spirit came in and started cleaning out the junk, healing the junk and renews me by helping recognize the sneaky little foxes of sin.
15. Though this happens at the new birth, it is continuous. Can you think of a recent example of how you were convicted, cleansed at repenting, and then give strength or wisdom to go a different way? I was angry at my husband recently and didn’t really want to talk to him. Lord s prayer came to mind forgive us our debts as we forgive. Yep, convicted and I forgave and asked forgiveness and was able to let go of hurt and resentment and not dwell in sin and discord.
16. He compares it to what a baby senses that is new coming out of the womb. If you were born again as a child you may or may not remember, but if you came as an adult you probably do. What did you see differently? And how did your motivations change? I saw my heart needed change and that deathbed conversion isn’t a good idea. My motivation at first became “i” need to change and be a better person. Then finally I realized I needed to follow Him and let Him do the work in me.
17. In hearing testimonies of church planters, many said they didn’t hear the gospel in their church, but later understood. One even said Luther didn’t get it. What was Keller’s point — and how do you relate to this. That some things are spiritually discerned and that without the Spirit I miss the point
19. What does a baby contribute toward his birth? Keller’s point? Nothing, It’s God implanting the new Spirit in us.
Dee, am not sure why my comments did not post. I will try submitting this and see if it goes through.
My comments are still not going through.
Bing — I don’t know why your earlier comments didn’t go through and so sorry for the frustration. It seems it is working now. I didn’t see any comments needing to be approved which sometimes happens when a link or word sets off an alarm. Sometimes using a different server helps. If you still have trouble I can get help from the website people.
9. Keller talks about the “Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea”. What does this mean?
The Greeks believed that history was cyclical, rather than linear, and every so often, the world was purged, or regenerated, and then history would start all over, until it declined to the point where it would “burn” or be regenerated once again. The term palingenisea means the regeneration of the world. Kind of like a reset. In this passage, Jesus says, “At the renewal of all things”, and the word used there is palingenisea. Jesus says that this will be the time when He will sit on His throne. So while Jesus uses the same word as the Greek philosophers, He means something very different. There will only be one “reset” of the world, and it will mean the end of all death, suffering, sin and evil. This will happen when the Kingdom of God comes in all its fullness.
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you”?
Keller explained that Paul, in the 3rd chapter of Titus, says “He saved us through the washing of regeneration”. The word “regeneration” is the word palingenisea. This means that the new birth is from the future. The new birth is the power that God is going to use to regenerate the world, brought into your present. It’s not complete, but only partial. This is God’s future, present in your heart right now, only partially.
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new.
Keller said to never underestimate the power of the new birth to change somebody. He used the examples of Peter and Paul, with their flawed characters, yet God used them to change the world when they were born again. “They were not made of any more promising material than you, so don’t settle for little change if you are born again.”
Well, I surely do feel the “it’s not complete, but only partial part.” I know I am not the person I was, but I sure have a long way to go. It’s hard for me to believe that I’m cut from the same cloth as Peter and Paul. I seem to have trouble feeling God’s power in my life, that tremendous power that will one day change everything? I would like to give another example, though, in answer to this question. My daughter recently had a very difficult time, mentally and emotionally, and spiritually, with something that happened in a relationship. One day in talking with her, what she shared with me was so personal about her spiritual life and growth, touched me very deeply. The next day I was praying Psalm 1, which talks about the person who follows God being like a tree planted by streams of water, which bears its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. I began to talk to God about my daughter, saying that I can see that she has been “planted”, and that she is beginning to “sip”, or draw from the stream of living water, which is from You, Lord, and I can see the new leaves on her – small, yet beginning to unfurl, and one day, she will be fully matured with all the leaves open, and I prayed that whatever she does in life to serve God, He will make her way prosper.
Such a good example and prayer for your daughter. I do agree!
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought?
He would’ve thought of the Kingdom of God as in the future; he would’ve thought about the resurrection at the end of time, or the return of the Messiah to make everything right, at the end of time. In this sense he was right, but he wouldn’t have understood the concept of being able to access the Kingdom in the present.
Wednesday: Where Is It From?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions into “What Does It Do?” Share any thoughts too — not just the ones I address.
”Don’t settle for little change if you are born again.”
9. Keller talks about the”Kingdom of God” or the “Palingenisea” What does this mean?
It’s a technical term meaning the regeneration of the world. The Greeks looked at it as history not being linear but cyclical and repeated itself…a reset. Keller used the computer example. I relate more to the modem for the internet and the router. When I lose internet I unplug both of these, count to 15 (the magical number 😜) and then plug them back in and voila I’m back on the internet.
Jesus uses the term differently. There is only one regeneration of the world and it won’t be just a reset of history. It will be the end of all death, suffering, and evil. The renewal of all things.
10. What does he mean when he says “the future is coming into you.”
It’s God’s future, the “washing of regeneration (the new birth),” brought into our hearts now but only partially.
11. Share at least two ways the future power of God making the heaven and earth new has been felt in making you new.
It’s the little mile markers in my life where I feel the future power of God and of course there’s always going two steps forward and one back. One is seeing others through God’s eyes and extending more grace. The other is being intentional in clothing myself with a compassionate heart, kindness, patience, meekness, humility and love…especially towards family members. I can hardly wait until the future power of God is complete rather than partial.
12. How would this be different from the way Nicodemus would have thought?
He would have thought the kingdom of God as only something in the future. A kingdom the Messiah was going to bring in at the end of time and make everything right.
You made me laugh with your modem and counting to 15.
Sharon~ You always make me smile….this is gold: ”Don’t settle for little change if you are born again.”
20. How do we know Nicodemus life was changed? He and Joseph of Arimathea boldly asked for Christ body and prepared for burial. New life boldness and humility They asked for Jesus body buried as a criminal and humbly prepared Him for burial -a woman’s job
21. What stood out to you from the close C. S. Lewis quote? Live life for self end in despair – live for Christ you find eternal life and everything else you need.
22. How has your life changed in the last five years that evidences the mighty power of the palingensia is at work in you? I forgive people quicker and don’t have any desire to carry a grudge. It sets me free, makes for healthier relationships and makes me a happier person.
That’s huge, Judy.
😊Live life for self end in despair – live for Christ you find eternal life and everything else you need. Simple and true, Judy.
A side note: It was like birthing a baby to get me to this point in the study for this week! I’m not sure why, but I have struggled to answer these questions! I’m finding it so hard to follow the sermon, and I usually love Tim Keller and his delivery. Maybe I’m just distracted with life? Ugh.
13. Keller uses Ezekiel 36 to explain what the water represents. What does he say and what are your thoughts?
The Spirit of God is like water in the desert; life itself. How true it is!
14. If both represent two different functions of the Holy Spirit, of cleansing and renewing, explain how that happened to you both at your new birth.
I’m not sure 🤷🏻♀️. When you actually find God, you are cleansed by Him then, you are reborn as a person free from your idols?
15. Though this happens at the new birth, it is continuous. Can you think of a recent example of how you were convicted, cleansed at repenting, and then give strength or wisdom to go a different way?
Not at this time.
16. He compares it to what a baby senses that is new coming out of the womb. If you were born again as a child you may or may not remember, but if you came as an adult you probably do. What did you see differently? And how did your motivations change?
I have always been a Christian, however not always known Jesus. That happened to me only in the last 15 years. I saw my life from His perspective after this. I decided to live for Him instead of myself (although this is easier said than done). I am still struggling in a few places. I need Him! Always.
17. In hearing testimonies of church planters, many said they didn’t hear the gospel in their church, but later understood. One even said Luther didn’t get it. What was Keller’s point — and how do you relate to this.
They actually heard the gospel, they just weren’t ready to hear the gospel. They couldn’t understand at that point in their faith. I so get this! I listened to preaching for 40 years and never got it. Now I know what I need to know.
18. Keller tells the Spurgeon story in relating to Moses. What was his point?
The only thing necessary was to look to what Christ has done for us, not to look what we have done for ourselves. In the case of Moses and the bronze snake, the people just had to gaze upon the snake to be saved. They were sick with sin. They didn’t have to touch it. Same thing with Christ. We are sick with sin and we have to gaze upon Him to be saved.
19. What does a baby contribute toward his birth? Keller’s point? Nothing. The mother is the one in pain! The baby is born of the mothers pain but right after delivery, it is as if nothing happened. Her pain is gone and she only has eyes for her newborn. It is a beautiful thing. This is like Christ. We are born because of His sacrifice, His pain. Wow.
LAURA — I think you did really well. There is a lot of mystery in these passages. Did you watch The Chosen’s episode of Nicodemus?
I totally agree with Dee, Sharon and Lizzy. I love your perspective on science and I love reading your take on things. Have you read the book “Sacred Geometry” or “The Power of Limits”? Both are Art and Math books~ I think you would love them. This lesson has had a lot of mystery and I have re-listen to parts of Keller’s sermon several times. 🙂
Oh Laura, you make me smile and I want you to know that you are such an inspiration and encouragement to me…I thank the Lord for you😊.
Laura-I agree with Sharon! You inspire and challenge me! So thankful for you!
Oh thanks everyone! How I needed that encouragement today 😉. Just when I want to give up, you are here. I’m serious. I am working on a personal “issue,” that is the biggest challenge of my life. I wonder why God is quiet. I don’t want to rely on myself, but where is He? Your encouragement makes me press on. Thank you!!!
Thursday: What Does It Do?
Watch or listen up to when Keller transitions into “How Do You Know It Has Happened?” Share any thoughts too — not just the ones I address.
What does the New Birth Do? Gives us a (1) New sensibility…our minds are illuminated and our hearts are moved. (2) New identity…we receive rights as children of God. “Our identity is received not achieved.”
How does New Birth Come? (1) Through Repentance. (2) Through Faith
13. Keller uses Ezekiel 36 to explain what the water represents. What does he say and what are your thoughts?
Ezekiel talks about the Spirit of God as water in a desert and it wasn’t just life giving but life itself. Water is a metaphor for the Spirit…new birth is having the Spirit implanted within you.
Jim and I watch a tv show called Homestead Rescue and it’s about a father and his two children that rescue families that are failing at homesteading. The main thing that the father always says…”you have to have water, especially drinking water because without it, you can’t survive.” It’s neat to see the attitude change of people when they know that they have access to water through a well, rain catcher or a stream near by…it’s a game changer in so many ways!
Water is such a great metaphor for the Spirit. I have been quite behind all week, but I love reading all these great thought. I love the idea of the father and his children rescuing families that need help homesteading, Sharon. Thanks for sharing.
20. How do we know Nicodemus life was changed? Nicodemus came by night, bringing enough spices to treat the body of royalty. He was changed. What he did took courage. It showed that he cared deeply and had great respect for Jesus. He was supporting Jesus in the way he knew how and it showed great humility to care for the body on another.
21. What stood out to you from the close C. S. Lewis quote? “Give up yourself and you will find your real self; Lose your life and you will save it.” and “But look for Christ and you will find Him and with Him everything else thrown in.”
22. How has your life changed in the last five years that evidences the mighty power of the palingensia is at work in you? I do see the evidence, that my faith and my walk have been strengthened by these studies and the iron sharpening iron that happens with all of you. This may sound silly, but I was taking a shower and washing my hair and thinking how like my life is “taking a shower”…it is needed daily. I thought how much abiding in Christ is like this….you don’t just do it once and it is fixed. I need to keep regenerating my walk, my repentance, my faith and keep my identity current, as a child of God.
Saturday:
23. What is your take-a-way and why?
Patti, I really liked your analogy of taking a shower each day and it didn’t sound silly at all.
Me too!
23. What is your take-a-way and why?
Your identity is rooted in Christ and not in yourself. Your Repentance and Faith are is Looking to God ~there is nothing “to do” to get salvation; it is something we need to see with the eyes of our hearts; to see the costly Grace of Christ and rest in it. It is His works that have saved us. It changes you.
There is so much in this sermon-I took so many notes. It has helped me to have a clearly picture of something that is very hard to grasp. I want to listen to this once a month! So many good points about the term “born again”. It has become overused and skewed and we need to go back to the Bible to re-set our minds and hearts. The new birth is important. It begins here, but it will ultimately be perfected in the future. It’s God future, but present in our hearts now. I loved then Keller mentioned it is the implantation of new life~ divine life, the Spirit, implanted in you. It is a new identity and a new sensibility of seeing the world in a new way, with a new awareness of Spiritual realities that you could not sense before. There is no template~ every person experiences it differently~ sometimes like a lightning bolt and sometimes evolves slowly.
Thursday
14. If both represent two different functions of the Holy Spirit, of cleansing and renewing, explain how that happened to you both at your new birth.
The Holy Spirit did a cleansing within my heart and implanted His Spirit within me.
15. Though this happens at the new birth, it is continuous. Can you think of a recent example of how you were convicted, cleansed at repenting, and then give strength or wisdom to go a different way?
Jim and I are laying new flooring in my sisters house and there are times where we can get on one another’s nerves and the Holy Spirit showed me my irritability/selfishness and I asked for forgiveness and asked Him to help me be more sensitive and loving to my husband and I prayed for him instead of grumbling within my spirit.
16. He compares it to what a baby senses that is new coming out of the womb. If you were born again as a child you may or may not remember, but if you came as an adult you probably do. What did you see differently? And how did your motivations change?
I do remember being born again as a child and what I saw differently in my life was how much I enjoyed hearing Bible stories and the love of hiding His Word in my heart. My motivation for doing these things came more and more out of my love for the Lord rather than just pleasing my parents as I grew in the Lord.
17. In hearing testimonies of church planters, many said they didn’t hear the gospel in their church, but later understood. One even said Luther didn’t get it. What was Keller’s point — and how do you relate to this.
They heard the gospel…but they needed to be born again.
18. Keller tells the Spurgeon story in relating to Moses. What was his point?
Just as the Israelites only had to look at the serpent on the pole to live…we only have to look to Jesus.
19. What does a baby contribute toward his birth? Keller’s point?
Nothing! “Not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to His mercy He saved us.” Titus 3:5. “For by grace are you saved through faith and not of yourselves; it is a gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9.
Friday
Listen to the end.
20. How do we know Nicodemus life was changed?
He and Joseph of Arimathea boldly asked for the body of Jesus so they could dress it for burial. This was usually done by slaves or woman, so in their position of being members of the ruling counsel this took courage. There was a change taking place in his life…he was both bold and humble.
21. What stood out to you from the close C. S. Lewis quote?
”Submit to death of your ambitions and favorite wishes everyday…submit with every fiber of your being and you will find eternal life.”
22. How has your life changed in the last five years that evidences the mighty power of the palingensia is at work in you?
I have had more boldness in proclaiming Christ and not being so concerned with what people think but more concerned with glorifying God.
20. How do we know Nicodemus life was changed?
He and Joseph of Arimathea asked for Jesus’ body which would have been a danger to themselves, as they were religious leaders in the community. Also they went to “prepare” His body with the burial ointments; a job for the women in those days. They were bold and tender as well as masculine and feminine. Their entire being changed.
21. What stood out to you from the close C. S. Lewis quote?
I have always loved the part of the quote at the end, and I have it on my refrigerator. “Look for yourself and you will find loneliness and despair, look for Christ, and you will find Him and everything else.”
22. How has your life changed in the last five years that evidences the mighty power of the palingensia is at work in you?
I am trying to live “in the moment” more; to appreciate what I am doing when I am doing it.