May 25

Individual instruction

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.This man came to Jesus by night… John 3:1-2 (NKJV)

Scholars speculate why Nicodemus came to Jesus at night. Some suggest it was because he was fearful of being seen during the daytime with the controversial figure and figured he could sneak a secret meeting in under the cover of dark. Others believe it was because their exchange took place at a time when Pharisees were especially busy, and the only opening in Nicodemus’ schedule was after hours.

The Bible doesn’t give us a definitively answer why Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, but what we can surmise is that they were most likely alone when they met. And what occurred during this one-on-one meeting is well worth our notice. Jesus shared some of the most important truths connected to the Christian faith.

He tells Nicodemus about the need to be born again, about the Spirit’s role in salvation, and about His mission to save and not condemn the world. And it’s in this intimate exchange that Jesus shares the most enduring expression of the gospel:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 NKJV)

Here’s the point: Some of the most important truths Jesus ever communicated were conveyed one on one. There were many times when Christ preached to the masses, but there are many other occurrences, like this one, where He revealed eternal truths to those who found themselves alone with Him.

Jesus does the same thing today. While it will never contradict anything in His written Word, it’s when we’re alone with the Lord that He often reveals the greatest spiritual insights to us…insights into who He is and who we are in Him. And when He does, they impact us all the more powerfully because they come to us personally. 

Think About It…
What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
What is my prayer for today? 

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