Reasonable Thinking in Religious Search

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 14, 2024 | John 3:1-4

KEY VERSE:

How can a man be born when he is old?" Nicodemus asked. "Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!" John 3:4 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

When I have seen people doing unreasonable things like drinking diesel, chewing grass like sheep, or transferring their life savings into the account of some religious leader, I ask myself in which direction their brains went in their desire to experience God. It may be said that they are acting out of faith, and in that matter, faith is intended to be headless and mindless. Nicodemus was a seeker of the real experience of the Messiah, and it was his initial thoughts and convictions that had brought him to the Lord Jesus Christ. When the Lord mentioned the necessity of being born again Nicodemus raised a logical question, "How can a man be born when he is old?" Nicodemus asked. "Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb to be born!"

Certainly, Nicodemus missed the point of what the Lord was teaching. But he asked a logical reasonable question, one that would lead to the Master clarifying the truth. We must learn to ask questions of our faith which do not undermine, but rather strengthen our belief in and our reliance on God. Faith does not mean the absence of thought.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Are you engaging your mind as you seek to walk by faith? Are you thinking about religious practices around you that raise questions? Engage your thinking capacities as you walk by faith!

PRAYER:

Lord, I acknowledge that some views and behaviours do not meet your expectations of my faith. May my reasoning capabilities be sharpened by my faith commitment. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: ENTER

The word translated as "enter" in this verse is "εἰσέρχεσθαι" (eiserchesthai), which comes from the root word "εἰσέρχομαι" (eiserchomai), meaning "to enter" or "to go into." Here, Nicodemus is expressing doubt about the possibility of entering into a state of spiritual rebirth.

The theme of entering into the kingdom of God is a central concept in Jesus' teachings. It signifies not only physical entry into a geographical location but also spiritual entrance into a relationship with God and participation in His kingdom. Throughout the New Testament, entering the kingdom of God is associated with faith, repentance, and obedience to Christ. In Matthew 7:21, Jesus says, "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." In Mark 10:15, Jesus teaches, "Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

Nicodemus' question reflects a common human tendency to interpret spiritual truths in literal terms. Jesus' response emphasizes the spiritual nature of the kingdom of God and the necessity of being born again through faith in Him. It underscores the need for a radical transformation of heart and mind to enter into the right relationship with God.

Reflections

Do you sometimes struggle to understand spiritual truths because you approach them with a literal mindset? How can you cultivate a deeper understanding of God's Word and His kingdom by relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit?