February 4

Introduction

John 3:1–21: Nicodemus, a Pharisee, approaches Jesus at night and questions him about the Kingdom of God. Jesus describes what it means to be born of the Spirit and says that, by believing in him, one will have eternal life. The reading concludes with a contrast between light and darkness. Light is a prominent image in John’s Gospel (see 1:4–5, 9; 8:12; 9:5) and indicates the presence of God.

Today’s Key Verse: John 3:16

For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.

Reflect

Nicodemus appears only in John’s Gospel (see 7:50–51; 19:39–42). How does Jesus respond to Nicodemus’s questions? What is your understanding of the Kingdom of God and being “born of water and the Spirit” as described by Jesus in verse 5? What does eternal life mean to you? Reread verse 16 and substitute your name for “the world.” Have you ever memorized this verse?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you are my Savior. Thank you for offering me eternal life by believing in you. Help me grow in faith and share the good news about God’s love with those I meet today. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 3:22–36: John the Baptist acknowledges the growing importance of Jesus’s ministry.