He Dwelt Among UsSample

The Kingdom of God is for Anyone Who Believes

Nicodemus was a respected Pharisee and teacher of Israel. He came to Jesus at night, perhaps to avoid being seen, but also because he was spiritually in the dark. He recognized that Jesus was a teacher who had come from God, but he did not yet understand who Jesus really was.

Jesus told him, “Unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3 CSB). This new birth is not about starting over in our own strength. It is about being born from above, through water and the Spirit, just as the prophets had promised: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you… I will place my Spirit within you” (Ezekiel 36:26–27 CSB). Nicodemus, like many religious leaders, thought his obedience was enough, but Jesus showed him that everyone must repent and believe in order to enter God’s Kingdom.

The Scriptures had always been pointing to this moment. Jesus was not creating a new religion but fulfilling God’s promises from long ago. Just as Moses lifted up the bronze serpent in the wilderness so that those who looked in faith could live, so the Son of Man would be lifted up on the cross, and everyone who believes in him will have eternal life (John 3:14–15 CSB). The Bible is a unified story that leads to Jesus.

At the heart of it all is God’s love. “For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16 CSB). God’s love is astounding not because the world is so big, but because the world is so bad.

In our selfishness, sin, and rejection of him, God still chose to send his Son to save us. The Kingdom of God is not for the people who think they are good enough. It is for anyone who will recognize their need and believe.

Nicodemus did not respond with faith that night, but his story was not finished. Later, he defended Jesus in front of other leaders (John 7:50–51 CSB). And after the crucifixion, Nicodemus came into the light, bringing seventy-five pounds of spices to help bury Jesus’ body (John 19:39–40 CSB). The Pharisee who first came to Jesus in secret eventually honored him in public.

The invitation is the same for us. No matter how religious or irreligious we may feel, the Kingdom of God is open to anyone who will repent, believe, and receive new life in Jesus.

Reflection Question: Do you see your need for Jesus today? Where do you need to repent and believe in order to experience the new life he offers?

Prayer: Father, thank you that your Kingdom is open to anyone who will believe. Jesus, I confess my need for you and trust that you are the one who gives new life. Holy Spirit, renew my heart and fill me with your presence so that I walk in repentance, faith, and love. Amen.