ESOCS Devotional 25 May 2022
TEXT: JOHN 3:1-15
MEMORY VERSE: “How can a grown man be born again? Nicodemus asked. He certainly cannot enter his mother’s womb and be born a second time.” John 3:4 GNB
0 And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done. Then He took them and went aside privately into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 But when the multitudes knew it, they followed Him; and He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing. 12 When the day began to wear away, the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get provisions; for we are in a deserted lace ”
Being born again is a mystery of the kingdom. It is the work of God, which He accomplishes through the Holy Spirit. Itis a necessity for the saints because man was naturally born and dead in sin (John 1:13; Gal. 6:15; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:23). This spiritual rebirth occurs when we believe and receive Jesus through the Gospel. The result is salvation through Christ. It also results in new life through the Holy Spirit; then, the assurance of eternal life, and victory over
our old sinful lifestyle (Rom. 8:1-8). This new status prepares us to do the right things as new creations of God. Webecome safe from all attacks of the devil and his agents (John1:12-13).
However, being born again, as a Christian doctrine, is not clearly understood by those outside the fold. Such was the case of Elder Nicodemus who came to Jesus by night (John 3:2). In his confusion, he wondered how a grown man could possibly enter back his mother’s womb to be born a second time. Jesus, on His part, marveled: “Are you a teacher of theJews, and yet does not understand this?” As a good teacher and shepherd, He clarified him.
In the explanation of the Master, He made it clear that being born again was a pre-condition for one to partake with Him in God’s Kingdom (v 3). Jesus also made it clear that being born again was not a work of merit, or a condition that will put God in debt. The only condition is one’s response to all that God has done through Christ. This is what will bring one into a covenant relationship with God (John 1:12).
So, child of God, stop labouring in self-righteousness. Accept Christ as Lord and personal Saviour, and live right. Makeyour way right with God, and the work of Grace will flow through you (Eph. 2:1-10). God bless you.
- 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” (John 3:8 NIV). Discuss.
- Lord Jesus, it is my desire to get truly born anew. Grant me the grace to attain that status.
Read Other ESOCS Devotional here
FURTHER READING: Exodus 4:18-26, 1 Kings 6:1-14, Eph. 6:10-24
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ESOCS Devotional 25 May 2022
