In a nighttime conversation with a religious leader recorded in John 3:1-21, Jesus used an expression that has found its way into popular culture, being “born again.” Jesus emphasized not merely a new start but a total transformation performed by God. In other words, we all need something that only God can give. At the same time, Jesus predicted that he would be lifted up on the cross so that anyone who believed in him would have eternal life. Although we cannot bring about our own new birth, we must look to Christ in faith and live. (Here are Larry’s complete sermon notes.)
If we invest in making disciples, our lives become bound up with theirs to die and live together.
This first parable from Matthew provides the key to understanding all the parables and to entering the kingdom of God.
The construction of the tabernacle foreshadowed greater dwellings of God, which he keeps building by plundering the nations.
