Main Teaching Point 4
The New Birth Begins A Relationship With God
John 1:12
“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.”
The goal of salvation is not merely escaping judgment.
It is becoming part of God’s family.
The new birth restores what sin disrupted:
Relationship with God.
Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus spoke about the new birth before discussing anything else with Nicodemus?
Answer: Because spiritual life must exist before spiritual growth can occur.
2. What is the difference between religion and being born again?
Answer: Religion focuses on outward practices. Being born again is receiving new life from God.
3. Why can’t good works produce the new birth?
Answer: Because spiritual life can only come from God through the work of the Holy Spirit.
4. What evidence of spiritual life should be present in a believer?
Answer: Love for Christ, conviction of sin, desire for God’s Word, obedience, and growing spiritual maturity.
5. How would you explain being born again to someone unfamiliar with Christianity?
Answer: Being born again is God’s work of giving new spiritual life to a person who places faith in Jesus Christ.
Reflection
Nicodemus had religion.
Nicodemus had knowledge.
Nicodemus had influence.
Yet Jesus told him:
“You must be born again.”
The question is not:
- How long have I attended church?
- How much do I know?
- How religious am I?