Sermon Summary
Come and See the Signs (Part 1) Gospel of John - New Birth
In a thought-provoking exploration of John 3, Pastor David delves into the transformative encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus, revealing how even a respected religious leader recognized something was missing in his spiritual life. Through the powerful metaphor of being "born again," Pastor David illuminates the crucial difference between intellectual belief and genuine faith that reshapes our entire life. Drawing parallels between Moses lifting the bronze serpent in the wilderness and Christ's crucifixion, he emphasizes that salvation comes not through religious works but through faith in Jesus' sacrifice. The sermon reaches its crescendo with the beloved John 3:16, highlighting God's universal invitation of salvation to "whoever believes" while maintaining the sobering reality that we must each personally respond to this offer. Pastor David concludes with an urgent invitation to move beyond casual curiosity about Jesus to complete surrender, reminding us that neutrality toward Christ is impossible – we must each decide where we stand.
Sermon Questions
Week 3: Come and See the Signs (Part 1) Gospel of John - New Birth - 1/18/26
Pastor David explains that Jesus knew what was in people's hearts even when they claimed to believe. How does this relate to the difference between surface-level belief and genuine faith?
In what ways might you be holding back from fully surrendering to Christ, even while participating in religious activities?
Looking at John 3:3-8, why does Jesus use the metaphor of being 'born again' when talking to Nicodemus, and what does this tell us about the nature of salvation?
What does being 'born again' mean to you personally, and how has it changed how you live your life?
How does the story of Moses lifting up the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 parallel Jesus's crucifixion, and what does this teach us about salvation?
In what ways do you find yourself trying to earn salvation through works rather than accepting it through faith?
What does Nicodemus's journey from nighttime seeker to public follower teach us about spiritual growth and commitment to Christ?
Where are you in your spiritual journey, and what might be holding you back from being more public about your faith?
How does the sermon's discussion of 'whoever believes' (John 3:16) balance with the reality that some people choose darkness over light?
How can we maintain hope for others' salvation while respecting their free will to choose or reject Christ?