John 3 What does born again really mean?

I can’t tell you how many times that I have heard the question with a puzzled look, “Are you born again?  What does that mean?”  I often tell people this story of Nicodemus’ same struggle to understand it.  We can give people a lot of clues(as Tim Keller describes in “Reason for God”) for Christianity, but the bottom line is that it comes through faith in a God that we can not totally grasp.  I find comfort in verse 8 where John gives a picture of the Holy Spirit being like the wind.  We can see the effects of God, but we cannot really understand everything about God. 

 

 Now, this passage also contains probably the most common reference in Scripture of John 3:16.  I say the most common reference because I really wonder how many people actually know what it says.  Take a minute and pray for the opportunity to share this incredible love with a friend in the next week.  Pray for your Circle of 3(Three non-Christian friends you are seeking to be intentional about praying for and initiate conversations with the hope of introducing them into a relationship with Jesus.)  Also, don’t read verse 16 without dwelling on 17.  We are saved through Jesus.  This is incredible that though we deserved a bashing he did not give it to you, but took it onto Himself.  Praise be to God for this incredible love.

 

Lastly, looking at how John the Baptist, who was the show before Jesus shows up, turns all the attention over to Jesus.  Bob Long, President of CCO’s Board said to me once, “Isn’t great the glory that goes to God when people don’t care who gets the credit.”  John shows this, by pointing those around him to Jesus.  May we do the same with our lives.