The Story of Nicodemus

The Story of Nicodemus
John 3:1-17

Main Thing to Know:
Believing takes us from curiosity to commitment

I think many people have the mistaken notion that faith reduces uncertainty. Nothing could be further from the truth. Faith doesn’t reduce uncertainty. Faith embraces uncertainty.

—Mark Batterson

1. Nicodemus was searching for answers

• Religious & spiritually-minded

• Interested in Jesus

• Had questions & doubts

Doubt can be a sign of spiritual struggle, a means of growing into maturity, and a pathway into a stronger and more resilient faith.     —Michael Bird

2. Jesus is the answer

We try to be too reasonable about what we believe. What I believe is not reasonable at all. In fact, it’s hilariously impossible.  —Madeleine L’Engle

Process of Believing:

• Curiosity (v. 5-8)

• Confusion (v. 9)

• Clarity (v. 10-15)

• Commitment (v. 16-17)

I believe in a hill called Mount Calvary
I believe whatever the cost
And when time has surrendered
And earth is no more
I’ll still cling to the old rugged cross

—Bill & Gloria Gaither, Dale Oldham