Bible Chapter: John 3

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    People are always looking for truth, for that one answer that will lead them in life to a sense of fulfillment and purpose.  Even religious education often leaves a person questioning.  A religious leader named Nicodemus came to Jesus asking these questions. I think he basically was asking Jesus “What is there in life that will answer my deepest questions?  Where will I find fulfillment?”.  Jesus’ response was the necessity of being born again.
    Probably the best known verse in the Bible is John 3:16.  It tells us that God loves everyone so much that He gave the most expensive gift possible.  Jesus came to the world to die to pay the price for our sins.  Jesus didn’t come to condemn.  This is one of the deceptions that the evil one promotes, that Jesus is out to condemn you.  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  Jesus cleared that up by offering a gift of forgiveness and giving the responsibility to believe in Him to each individual.  Belief delivers us from condemnation and eternal punishment to possess eternal life.
    Jesus described the unbelievers as those who love darkness rather than light.  These folks love evil and find pleasure in sin.  Yes, sin can be fun.  But, it is always only for a little while, and then the consequences and payday arrive.  On the other side, those who love Jesus love light and don’t have to hide their lives and actions.  In Jesus we already have life, we don’t have to keep seeking for something to satisfy.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    This chapter is one of the foundational chapters of the Bible.  It is foundational to how we live life.  I have already applied its truths of believing in Jesus.  The concept of believing is not just a one-time action of saying I believe, but it is continual belief.  It is a continuing conviction that Jesus is the only Savior for me and the world.  It means that I continue to live in obedience to the teachings and principles of the Bible.  I must live in an ongoing trust that Jesus is preparing a place for me for eternity.  I have life that is worth living.
    These promises given in this chapter are a stark contrast to what the world has to offer.  When I see the lives of people trapped in sin, it is sad.  I must keep the proper focus on life so I don’t listen to the sweet song of temptation that is lying about what it offers.  I must always remember that Jesus came to save.  There is nothing better than that.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I can help people by keeping the truths taught in this chapter on the forefront of my mind, so I am always ready to share them.  Verse 16 is well known, but the next two verses are just as important.  Jesus didn’t come to condemn and it is up to us to believe.  I can share these truths and help people understand these principles and they can find life.