“The Teacher Who Did Not Know”

is the title of a section of the chapter “Redemption through the Word of God” from Hearing God.

It has an interesting perspective on Nicodemus.

.. Nicodemus, this leader, complimented Jesus [in John 3:2], yet at the same time he complimented himself on being an insider who had the good sense to recognize God at work.

Jesus’ reply to him was a stinging rebuke, though it was delivered in such a gentle was as to be digestible and helpful. In effect Jesus said that Nicodemus had not the slightest idea what he was talking about. Nicodmus came claiming to be able to recognizee, to see God at work. Jesus said, “No one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above” (Jn 3:3). Without this birth we cannot recognize God’s workings: [sic] we do not possess the appropriate facilities and equipment.

This is interesting and is a different interpretation than I have ever heard before. However, it is not the interpretation that is most striking, but rather the application of this idea.

Those born of the Spirit manifest a different kind of life. Remember that a life is a definite range of activities and responses. The spiritually born exhibit a life deriving from an invisible spiritual realm and its powers. In natural terms one cannot explain what is happening with them, where they come from or where they go (Jn 3:8).

1 thought on ““The Teacher Who Did Not Know”

  1. Now this one I understand and have to agree with. It is like scales are lifted from the new believer’s eyes. Many things become much clearer.

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