Jesus, Lessons for Life 10
Last time we quoted scripture from John 3, as Jesus was instructing Nicodemus. Jesus was instructing his about the need to be born of the spirit, which was a very difficult lesson for Nicodemus.
We see in the context of that discussion what a marvelous teacher our Savior is. Christ gives us examples to illustrate the faith He requires. He did so for Nicodemus. Those examples, often in the form of metaphors, parables, stories and questions, are great tools to help us think about the "spiritual things" so important in our walk with Christ.
In this example, Jesus used the wind as an example to help us understand and have faith about the "Spirit" He is referring to in the lesson.
Jn 3:3 In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’”
Jn 3:4 “How can a man be born when he is old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born!”
Jn 3:5 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit.
Jn 3:6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.
Jn 3:7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’
Jn 3:8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
Jn 3:9 “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked.
Jn 3:10 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things?
What a wonderful metaphor -- the wind. We don't question all of the details about the wind, yet we know it is real, that it is blowing, whether we simply hear it, or see the movement of things around us, or feel the breeze on our faces. So it should be with the Holy Spirit.
Yet still Nicodemus could not get his mind and heart around this important teaching.
Key Lesson — Faith is fundamental to our growth as Christians. It is fundamental to salvation. As we seek to learn details, we must be aware and willing to accept Christ and his teachings on faith, learning from the powerful metaphors He provides as we grow.
Blessings,
Larry
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