Born From Above

This message explores Jesus’ midnight conversation with Nicodemus.
(John 3:1-21)

Sermon Outline

Built by Human Hands

  • Nicodemus’ four pillars
    • Identity
    • Religion
    • Politics
    • Wealth

Jesus’ Invitation

  • Just Let Go
  • Is it a point in time decision or a pattern for life?
    • What we see in Scripture

Born from Above

  • Curiosity for what God is doing

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

  1. Reflect or share about a time that you put a lot of effort and work into building something or planning something, only for it to not go as planned. How did it feel, and how did in eventually turn out?
  2. For many of us who have grown up in and around Christian culture, the Bible passage of John 3:16 is very familiar. How has that shaped your view of this story?
  3. Turning to Nicodemus, we can quickly move past the details the author John specifically cited about him. As we spent time lingering on who Nicodemus was, and how he built his life, what did that bring to mind for you?
  4. Standing in a place of worldly success, Jesus invites Nicodemus to let go and start again, to let God be the one who shapes his life and success. Can you put yourself in Nicodemus’ shoes, and share ways that you’ve felt you’ve built your own life or success? What are your thoughts and reflections in light of how Jesus approaches Nicodemus?
  5. When it comes to letting go, have you had a season or a time in life where you felt that your life as you built it was starting to unravel? Maybe it was a time you chose to unravel or let go of something. Reflect or share about that experience.
  6. As we loosen our grips on our lives and create space for God to move, how have you seen God move in your life and interact with you? (Again, there are no right/better answers!)
  7. What are areas in your life that you feel God is leading you to let go and to let Him be the one who builds and shapes that part of your life? How can those around you be a support in that?

DIG DEEPER

Exploring Faith

  • The practice of “Fasting” is a spiritual activity that sets one day aside to let go of food and to seek God for the day. Visit practicingtheway.org/fasting to explore this ancient exercise.

Growing in Faith

  • The pattern of our ability to let go and invite God to shape us, is to revisit familiar ideas through a new lens. For example, take time to engage with the Bible Project’s content on the 10 commandments, and reflect on the fresh perspective it provides.

Centered in Faith

  • One of the key aspects of life Jesus was inviting Nicodemus to let go of what his religion. Set time aside this week for a time of silence and solitude. Rather than bringing things to God, take time to let God reveal religious things He is inviting you to let go of and let Him build something new in your walk with Him.

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