Sunday, March 01, 2026,
Scriptures: John 3:1-17, Psalm 121
Sermon title: “Repent and be born from above”
- Nicodemus comes with questions
Today’s Scripture introduces Nicodemus, a Pharisee who came to Jesus at night and acknowledged Him as a teacher sent from God, saying that no one could perform His signs unless God were with Him. The Pharisees were an influential Jewish religious and political group known for their strict devotion to the Law. Pharisee means “separated,” reflecting how they set themselves apart in religious practice. They upheld both the written Law (the Torah) and the oral traditions passed down by the elders. They believed the written Torah was not complete, believing that God also gave Moses additional laws that were not included in the written version, so there is a need for Oral tradition from the elders. The New Testament notes several Pharisaic traditions, including frequent fasting and ritual washings. They washed their hands before eating, believing unwashed hands were defiled, and also cleansed cups, pots, tables, and other utensils used for food preparation.
Why did Nicodemus come at night? Nicodemus came to Jesus at night because of his position in the community. He may have wanted privacy and Jesus’ full attention, since Jesus was busy with crowds during the day. It is also possible that he came at night to avoid being seen speaking with Him.
Beloved in Christ, Nicodemus coming at night reflects our own state before salvation, we live in spiritual darkness until we are born again. We must come to Christ, the Light, for He alone saves. The Lord is always available, ready to receive us. As James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” He knows everything about you, loves you, and calls you to surrender to His will. Let the Holy Spirit lead you into God’s loving arms.
2. Being born from above
Jesus answered Nicodemus, saying, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” The phrase can also mean “born from above,” pointing to a spiritual transformation that comes from God. Nicodemus misunderstood, thinking Jesus was speaking of a physical rebirth or merely changing one’s behavior.
Friends, being born again is a spiritual rebirth, a radical transformation through faith in Christ. It is not physical but brings a new life and nature, making believers new creations in Him. The old ways pass away, and a new life aligned with God’s will begins. Only those born from above are saved, have a relationship with God, can enter His Kingdom, and have the assurance of eternal life.
- Born of Water and the Spirit
Jesus explains how we are born again: “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.” Being born of the Spirit refers to spiritual rebirth, the Holy Spirit’s work in us, including growing in faith, being convicted of sin, receiving forgiveness, reconciling with God and others, and beginning a life of holiness. However, there is some confusion about “born of water,” as Scripture does not specify its meaning, and there are different interpretations in commentaries. Water may represent Scripture, physical birth, purification, and Baptism.
When Jesus told Nicodemus he must “be born of water and Spirit,” the water symbolizes spiritual cleansing, a concept familiar from the Old Testament (Ezekiel 36:25). Physical water represents purification, and the New Testament continues this symbolism, linking water to spiritual rebirth or regeneration through the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5).
The idea of water is linked to baptism, reminding us of the vows we take during the sacrament. In baptism, we are initiated into Christ’s Church, incorporated into God’s saving work, and given new birth through water and the Spirit. God’s gift. While important, baptism itself does not save us.
- Sin is the problem
Jesus’ main point to Nicodemus is to turn away from sin. Entering God’s Kingdom isn’t about religion, rituals, Torah, church attendance, or status; it’s about genuine repentance. Unrepentant sin breaks our fellowship with Jesus, turning our hearts toward ourselves rather than toward God.
It’s like a child who disobeys their parent, the relationship remains, but fellowship is broken until confession and repentance restore it.
- Repent and be born from above
Friends, entry into God’s Kingdom begins with sincere repentance, acknowledging our sins and turning from them. As Acts 3:19 says, “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
In Matthew 27:38, 44, two criminals were crucified with Jesus, one rejected Him, the other repented, saying, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise. Repentance opens our hearts to God’s grace, prepares us for being born again, and gives us a new identity as His children. Without repentance, the door to new life remains closed.
Therefore, let us not delay in turning our hearts back to God. This is the season to examine our lives honestly, confess our sins, and step toward the God who is ready to welcome us. May we return to the Lord in repentance, be born from above, and enter His kingdom. Amen.