We often minimize our spiritual condition, thinking we just need a little help from God to get back on track. But what if our situation is far more desperate than we realize? Today we'll explore Jesus's radical diagnosis of our spiritual state and why His solution is nothing short of supernatural resurrection.
John 3:3-4 "Jesus answered and said to him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to Him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?'"
When Jesus introduces the concept of being "born again," He's not suggesting a minor adjustment. He's declaring the need for supernatural rebirth. Notice the word "unless"—it denotes a necessary condition. Unless you are born again, you will not see the kingdom of God.
This was staggering news to Nicodemus, who represents the pinnacle of religious achievement—educated, devoted, respected, wealthy, influential. If anyone could earn their way into God's kingdom through religious performance, it would be him. Yet Jesus tells him all his religious credentials count for nothing.
I've heard people say, "You're drowning in sin, and Jesus throws you a life vest. You just need to reach out and grab it." But what's wrong with that picture? Well, according to the Scripture, you're not spiritually sinking; you're spiritually sunk. You're not spiritually sick; you're spiritually dead.
That's why it takes divine power to make you new. Ephesians 2 says, "You were dead in your trespasses and sins... But God, being rich in mercy... made us alive together with Christ."
If you've never understood that you were (or are) spiritually dead, you'll never cry out for the remedy. A proper diagnosis is essential. The one who looks at their religious pedigree and understands that it didn't merit a single drop of God's love is finally at spot where they can cry out for the mercy of God.
This is why entering the kingdom doesn't begin with reforming behavior but with regenerating the heart. That word "regeneration" is the same word Jesus uses when talking about the renewal of the heavens and earth. The same divine power required to create a new world is what's necessary to renew you.
No one will enter the kingdom of God unless they are born again.
Has God done a miracle in your heart? If you've never thought you needed a miracle—if your view of sin is small and shallow—then salvation is just a favor. But if you realize that every attempt at your own righteousness is utterly corrupt and futile, that's the seedling of true life.
How does understanding your spiritual state as "dead" rather than just “sick” change your perspective on salvation?
What religious credentials or good works might you be tempted to rely on instead of the supernatural work of God in your heart?
If salvation is entirely God's work, not your own, how should that shape your daily approach to living the Christian life?
Stay dialed in,
Jonny Ardavanis