How can we better explain spiritual truths to those struggling like Nicodemus? Nicodemus’ Puzzle—John 3 : 9 “ ‘How can this be?’ Nicodemus asked.” Even an educated teacher can stall when truth collides with long-held assumptions. Jesus uses the moment to model how we can walk someone from confusion to clarity. Understand the Obstacles • Intellectual: decades of theology built on works and lineage (John 3 : 10) • Spiritual blindness: “The natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 2 : 14). • Fear of reputation: Nicodemus comes at night (John 3 : 2). Knowing the hurdles keeps our tone patient and our explanations simple. Begin with Common Ground • Affirm what they already respect—Scripture. Jesus says, “Are you the teacher of Israel and do not understand these things?” (John 3 : 10). • Point to familiar passages: Ezekiel 36 : 26-27 foretells the new heart and Spirit. • Show continuity, not contradiction: the new birth fulfills the Old Covenant promises. Use Down-to-Earth Pictures • Jesus chooses the wind (John 3 : 8). • We can reach for today’s equivalents—cell signals, gravity, heartbeat—unseen yet undeniable. • Anchor each picture in a verse so the analogy serves, not replaces, the text. Keep the Gospel Front and Center • New birth is God’s work, not self-effort (Titus 3 : 5). • Lift up Christ: “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up” (John 3 : 14). • Land on belief: “Everyone who believes in Him shall not perish” (John 3 : 15-16). Lean on Scripture’s Authority • Quote plainly, then explain briefly. • Let verses pile up like courtroom evidence—Psalm 119 : 130, 2 Corinthians 4 : 6, Romans 10 : 17. • Trust that God’s Word does the heart work we cannot. Speak with Gracious Confidence • Gentle start: “I once wrestled with this too…” • Clear terms: avoid jargon; define “born again” as “made spiritually alive by God.” • Invite reflection, not debate: “Consider what Jesus says here.” (2 Timothy 2 : 24-25) Depend on the Spirit’s Work • Salvation is a miracle: “The Spirit gives life” (John 6 : 63). • Pray silently as you speak—He alone turns doubt into faith. • Rest in His timing; Nicodemus shows up honoring Christ’s burial later (John 19 : 39). Practical Steps for Your Next Conversation 1. Open with a verse they respect—John 3 : 16 or Isaiah 53 : 5. 2. Ask them to read it aloud; hearing Scripture in their own voice softens resistance. 3. Share a simple illustration (wind, heart transplant) tied to Ezekiel 36 : 26. 4. Explain the necessity and gift of the new birth (John 3 : 3, 7; Titus 3 : 5). 5. Invite them to place personal trust in Christ’s finished work (John 3 : 15; Acts 16 : 31). 6. Leave them with a Gospel portion—John or Romans—to read on their own. 7. Follow up in love; the Spirit often keeps working long after the conversation ends. |
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