This post is Day 7 in a series of studies about “Surprises”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Surprises – Day 7

The new birth spoken of in evangelical circles means being aware that we can become spiritual children of Father God by believing in His Son Jesus, and by giving our lives to Him. That personal decision is the first step in a life-long relationship as we grow into spiritual maturity.

John 3:7-8

You should not be surprised by My saying “you must be born again” The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of The Spirit.

The Thought

The beginning of this chapter tells us that Nicodemus, who came in secret to pose questions to Jesus, was a respected Jew. His heartfelt search for Jesus had to stay secret, so he came at night. We don’t know if he had to waken Jesus, or if He was awake and expecting this visit. We never get the idea that Jesus was surprised, but we do understand that He often gave surprises. This time His discussion with the prominent Jew led to his listener’s surprise. This was mainly a lack of understanding of the difference between body and spirit.

Earlier in this chapter, we can read the beginning of Jesus’ teaching on the subject of “being born again”. “Very truly I tell you, no-one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again” (John 3:3).

Interestingly, the Greek for the expression born again also can be interpreted born from above. The new birth spoken of so often in evangelical circles means being aware that we can become spiritual children of Father God by believing in His Son Jesus, and by giving our lives to Him. That personal decision is the first step in a life-long relationship as we grow into spiritual maturity.

Action

Read John 3 today and ask yourself if in your innermost being, you are surprised as Nicodemus was with Jesus saying “You must be born from above.”

Pause as you read verse 16 of that chapter, and imagine the eternal life in Heaven that Jesus has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9).

Pray for those you know who have not yet accepted this free gift of eternal life.

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