In our last study on the Samaritan Woman (John 4:1-42), we found a woman who likely expected to be rejected or judged by Jesus. Instead, he offered her living water; something to cure the thirst she was trying to satisfy through her sinful lifestyle.

In contrast, this week we look at Nicodemus (John 3:1-15), a member of the Sanhedrin who seems to be looking for validation from Jesus. Instead of applauding his resume, Jesus tells him he must be “born again;” to become spiritually alive to God based on Jesus, not on his own merits.

Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

John 3:3-5