Remake vs Remodel (John 3:1-31)

Introduction
Jesus is approached by Nicodemus, a Jewish religious leader -- one of the Pharisees. This interaction between Christ and Nicodemus affords us a first glimpse at the radical nature of the new birth -- a birth that is absolutely necessary for anyone wishing to enter into the Kingdom of God.

Nicodemus came to Jesus as a member of God's chosen race -- Israel. In spite of his extensive learning he recognized the fact that Jesus signs signified the fact that he was from God. If Jesus was from God, then Nicodemus was interested in talking with him to understand his teaching. Perhaps Nicodemus recognized that in spite of his adherence to the Law of Moses and the strict traditions of his religious sect, there was an unsettling realization of guilt for sin. Perhaps he was living with the realization that salvation could never be obtained through strict adherence to a code, but must instead be something offered as a pardon by the One to whom sin's offence is directed.

In this dialogue, Jesus engages Nicodemus as teacher (Rabbi) to teacher. He draws Nicodemus to the point of realizing that salvation, as new birth indicates, is beyond his ability to obtain. Just as natural birth is necessary for a baby to enter into this world and experience what it has to offer. So too is birth from above necessary to experience the Kingdom of God.

Nicodemus came to Jesus, presumably, to find out what new teachings he might receive from him. But he left Jesus realizing that a new teaching was not what he needed, he needed a new birth that could only be obtained by a work of God. Jesus was given as an offering to accomplish, once for all, what the sacrifices of the Old Covenant could not accomplish -- both removal of sin and the guilt that accompanies sin.

Spiritual Birth (John 3:1-13)
Spiritual birth is a prerequisite to entering God's kingdom.
What religious beliefs and practices are keeping you out of God's kingdom?
What evidence is there in your life that you are born again?
What personal works are you adding to a work that only God can do by His Spirit?

Substitutionary Death (John 3:14-21)
Jesus' death is the means to eternal life.
Where do you stand tonight, in the dark or in the light?

Selfless Life (John 3:22-31)
Contentment is found in knowing one's purpose.
What task(s) has God called you to to which you are taking all the glory?
How is your work for God pointing people to Christ for salvation?
Where do you stand in relation to God? Does His wrath remain on you? Or has it been placed on Christ on your behalf?