We Are All NicodemusSýnishorn

Stage 2: Confusion

We may never know what Nicodemus thought he would encounter the night he sought Jesus out. What he did encounter, we know, left him thoroughly perplexed. Cutting Nicodemus off mid-flattery, before the Pharisee can ask a single question, Jesus explained that the only way to see the Kingdom of God was to be “born again.” (John 3:3) 

This was not the answer Nicodemus came for. It likely wasn’t even connected with any of the questions Nicodemus planned to ask Jesus that night. Yet here, in this one all-encompassing metaphysical statement, Jesus provides the answer to the question Nicodemus should have been asking. 

Nicodemus’ confusion is obvious. (John 3:4) And the more Jesus expounds upon all matters spiritual, the more profound Nicodemus’ confusion becomes. (John 3:5-8) In his exasperation, he asks Jesus, “How are these things possible?” (John 3:9) 

Perhaps, like Nicodemus, you find yourself in a state of confusion as you seek to study the Scriptures. It’s okay if you feel blown away; most people are when they first read the Word. Truth – not experiential or conditional “truth” as humans conceive of it, but rather The Truth in its rawest, most unfiltered form – isn’t easily digested. Like Jesus, the Gospel is a lot to take in. 

The good news about the Good News, though, is that you aren’t expected to make sense of it alone. God sent His Holy Spirit to dwell among us – and, if we’re willing, within us, too – to give us the insight and understanding we need to read the Bible. Without Him guiding us in all Truth, understanding and interpreting God’s Word can be downright daunting! That was Nicodemus’ predicament.

So how do you gain access to this Holy Spirit? That’s the easy part; you just have to ask Him. (No, I’m not kidding, it really is that simple!) Right now, wherever you are reading this, simply say these words – and mean them: “Holy Spirit, please open my eyes to the Truth.” 

Now open your Bible, and see what Nicodemus couldn’t that night.