January 6, 2019
Dear Parents,
Jesus’ ministry had begun. One night, a man named Nicodemus approached Jesus. (John 3) Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews; that is, he was a religious leader who taught God’s law, and he was a member of the Sanhedrin—a Jewish governing body. Nicodemus was part of an exclusive group of apparently moral men. He held to the belief that if a person was a law-abiding Jew, he would be accepted by God. Jesus gave Nicodemus a lesson that would turn his belief system on its head. His words perplexed Nicodemus: “Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Jesus explained that spiritual birth is not unlike physical birth in that a person cannot do it himself. It is something that happens to him.
Nicodemus needed new life—eternal life—but he could not do anything to earn it. Eternal life is a gift that comes only from God. God showed His love in this way: He sent His One and Only Son to save the world. Everyone who believes in Him will not perish but will have eternal life. Emphasize with your kids that every person is born a sinner—spiritually dead and alienated from God. It is by God’s Spirit—not our own effort—that we are born again. We look to Christ and His finished work on the cross for our salvation.
The Bible Story: Jesus Meets Nicodemus
Bible Passage: John 3
The Big Ideas
Nicodemus came secretly to talk with Jesus.
Jesus told him that God gives eternal life to those who believe in Him.
Eternal life is a gift that only comes from God.
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Table Talk
Use these questions to make the most of meal time:
- Why was Nicodemus confused when Jesus said he must be born again?
- What things can you do on your own? What things do you need others to do for you?
- Is being born again something you can do for yourself?
- How can someone be born into God’s family?
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This Month's Memory Verse
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 ESV
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