ABSTRACT

The encounter between Nicodemus and Jesus illuminates the essential truth of spiritual rebirth, demonstrating that true entry into God’s kingdom demands a heart renewed by faith in Christ, free from self-righteousness, as revealed through Scripture and the writings of Ellen G. White.

THE AMAZING REVELATION!

Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews, well respected and esteemed for his wisdom and piety (John 3:1,10). He held a high position in the Sanhedrin and prided himself on his good works. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. “Nicodemus held a high position of trust in the Jewish nation. He was highly educated, and possessed talents of no ordinary character, and he was an honored member of the national council. … Though rich, learned, and honored, he had been strangely attracted by the humble Nazarene” (The Desire of Ages, p. 167, 1898). However, his self-righteousness made him blind to his need for a Savior. “He was a strict Pharisee, and prided himself on his good works. He was widely esteemed for his benevolence and his liberality in sustaining the temple service, and he felt secure of the favor of God” (The Desire of Ages, p. 171, 1898). Ellen G. White further elaborates on the spiritual condition of Nicodemus: “As yet he was not prepared to accept the Saviour’s divinity. He did not realize that the necessity of being born again applied to himself. He felt that he needed no change.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 171, 1898). Sr. White also writes, “Nicodemus had been watching the life and teachings of Jesus. He had pondered over His words, and he had seen that they were borne out in His life.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 117, 1900). Scripture further supports this idea in Matthew 23:27, KJV: Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Likewise, Luke 18:11, KJV declares: The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. As Ellen G. White explains, “The Pharisee felt no conviction of sin. The Holy Spirit could not work with him. His soul was encased in a self-righteous armor which the arrows of God, barbed and true-aimed by angel hands, failed to penetrate.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 158, 1900). Sr. White adds, “The Pharisee’s boastful, self-righteous prayer showed that his heart was closed against the influence of the Holy Spirit. Because of his distance from God, he had no sense of his own defilement, in contrast with the perfection of the divine holiness.” (Steps to Christ, p. 7, 1892). Nicodemus’ story challenges us to examine our own hearts for hidden pride. But what compelled this esteemed leader to seek a clandestine meeting with Jesus?

SECRET MIDNIGHT SUMMIT!

Fearing judgment from his fellow rulers, Nicodemus sought Jesus under the cover of night (John 3:2). “Learning by special inquiry the Saviour’s place of retirement in the Mount of Olives, he waited until the city was hushed in slumber, and then sought Him” (The Desire of Ages, p. 168, 1898). He addressed Jesus with honor, saying, “Rabbi, we know that Thou art a teacher come from God” (John 3:2). Yet, his words betrayed his doubt, for he did not acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah. “In the presence of Christ, Nicodemus felt a strange timidity, which he endeavored to conceal under an air of composure and dignity” (The Desire of Ages, p. 168, 1898). Sr. White emphasizes Christ’s patience with Nicodemus: “Jesus did not meet argument with argument. Raising His hand with solemn, quiet dignity, He pressed the truth home with greater assurance.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 171, 1898). Sr. White also notes, “The light of truth was shining amid the darkness; but they perceived it not, for their hearts were filled with prejudice and pride.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 167, 1898). This truth echoes in John 1:11, KJV: He came unto his own, and his own received him not. Similarly, John 12:42-43, KJV states: Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. As Ellen G. White states, “Nicodemus was converted as the result of this interview. In that night conference with Jesus the convicted man stood before the Saviour under the condemning power of a truth which was making him tremble in its convicting power; and yet he would not confess that the Galilean Teacher was the Son of God. Thus had been the case with many others. What was it that led Nicodemus to take so decided a stand when he came to bury Jesus? He had pondered the words spoken to him by the Galilean Teacher in that memorable interview in regard to the new birth. The truths there uttered had found their way to his heart, and had made him a believer in Jesus of Nazareth. The costly spices which Nicodemus brought for the dead body of his Lord were not brought to honor a living Saviour; but the faith of Nicodemus had not been able to grasp the fact that this despised Galilean was to die upon the cross as the world’s Redeemer, and was to triumph over the power of the grave, and live a conqueror over death. The lessons which Christ gave to Nicodemus were for him and for us. The seeking soul and the omniscient eye of God meet at last.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 229, 1889). Sr. White further observes, “Nicodemus had witnessed the miracle of Christ, and he came to the Master by night, for he had not the moral courage to approach him openly, since this would excite the criticisms of the priests and Pharisees.” (The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, p. 1311, 1888). This midnight encounter unveils the profound truths of divine grace. But how did Jesus unveil the mystery of rebirth to a perplexed Nicodemus?

NEW BIRTH UNVEILED!

Nicodemus was confused. “How can a man be born when he is old?” he asked (John 3:4). His response, filled with irony, revealed his struggle against the truth. “Surprised out of his self-possession, he answered Christ in words full of irony, ‘How can a man be born when he is old?’” (The Desire of Ages, p. 171, 1898). But Jesus did not argue. Instead, He emphasized the necessity of spiritual rebirth: “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). The new birth is not a physical rebirth, but a transformation of the heart. “Through the merits of Christ he can be restored to harmony with his Maker. His heart must be renewed by divine grace; he must have a new life from above” (The Great Controversy, p. 467, 1888). Sr. White expands on this concept: “It is not a mere outward change. It is a new birth. The will and the desires are brought into subjection to Christ.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 172, 1898). “Genuine faith will be manifested in the obedience of love. Christ is the source of every right impulse.” (Steps to Christ, p. 57, 1892). The Scriptures affirm this in 1 Peter 1:23, KJV: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. Likewise, 2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV proclaims: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. As Ellen G. White describes, “The new birth consists in having new motives, new tastes, new tendencies. Those who are begotten unto a new life by the Holy Spirit, have become partakers of the divine nature, and in all their habits and practices they will give evidence of their relationship to Christ. When men who claim to be Christians retain all their natural defects of character and disposition, in what does their position differ from that of the worldling? They do not appreciate the truth as a sanctifier, a refiner. They have not been born again.” (The Review and Herald, April 12, 1892). Sr. White also notes, “The new birth is a rare experience in this age of the world. This is the reason why there are so many perplexities in the churches. Many, so many, who assume the name of Christ are unsanctified and unholy. They have been baptized, but they were buried alive. Self did not die, and therefore they did not rise to newness of life in Christ.” (Manuscript 148, 1897). This revelation calls for complete surrender to divine renewal. But what symbolizes this inner cleansing and regeneration?

CLEANSING WATERS SURGE!

Jesus explained that this transformation was symbolized by baptism. “He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). Baptism signifies dying to self and rising in Christ, but it is not merely an outward act. “The converting power of God can transform inherited and cultivated tendencies; for the religion of Jesus is uplifting” (The Adventist Home, p. 206, 1952). Human efforts cannot achieve this change: “It is impossible for us, of ourselves, to escape from the pit of sin in which we are sunken” (Steps to Christ, p. 18, 1892). Sr. White also writes, “Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized… declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). Sr. White further adds, “Baptism is not to be received as a mere form. It is a symbol of the new birth.” (Evangelism, p. 307, 1946). This concept resonates in Romans 6:4, KJV: Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Equally, Colossians 2:12, KJV affirms: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. As Ellen G. White elucidates, “Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 91, 1901). Sr. White observes, “Baptism is a most sacred and important ordinance, and there should be a thorough understanding as to its meaning. It means repentance for sin, and the entrance upon a new life in Christ Jesus.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 93, 1901). Baptism marks the beginning of a renewed existence in Christ. But what radical shifts does this new life entail?

NEW LIFE IGNITED!

The new birth brings a radical change in our lives. Paul declared, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me” (Galatians 2:20). A transformed heart leads to a new focus: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world” (1 John 2:15). True conversion reshapes priorities. “I would address you as Christ addressed Nicodemus: ‘Ye must be born again.’ Those who have Christ ruling within will feel no desire to imitate the world’s display” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 189, 1889). Sr. White further writes, “When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart. A change is wrought which man can never accomplish for himself.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 99, 1900). “Through faith, we receive the life of Christ, and this life enables us to overcome the tendencies to evil.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 324, 1898). This transformation appears in Ephesians 4:22-24, KJV: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Furthermore, Romans 12:2, KJV exhorts: And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. As Ellen G. White articulates, “It is our own character and experience that determine our influence upon others. In order to convince others of the power of Christ’s grace, we must know its power in our own hearts and lives. The gospel we present for the saving of souls must be the gospel by which our own souls are saved.” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 469, 1905). Sr. White emphasizes, “The new birth consists in having new motives, new tastes, new tendencies. Those who are begotten unto a new life by the Holy Spirit, have become partakers of the divine nature, and in all their habits and practices they will give evidence of their relationship to Christ.” (The Review and Herald, April 12, 1892). This new life demands daily surrender to Christ’s transforming power. But how did Nicodemus’ journey culminate in open discipleship?

FAITH’S FINAL TRIUMPH!

Nicodemus eventually became a disciple of Christ, defending Him before the Sanhedrin (John 7:50-51) and aiding in His burial (John 19:39). His story serves as a call to all who rely on self-righteousness. No human merit can earn salvation. “He who is trying to reach heaven by his own works in keeping the law is attempting an impossibility” (The Desire of Ages, p. 172, 1898). Only by surrendering to Christ and being born again can we enter the kingdom of God. The Bible reinforces this in Ephesians 2:8-9, KJV: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Moreover, Romans 3:28, KJV asserts: Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. As Ellen G. White affirms, “The great work that is wrought for the sinner who is spotted and stained by evil is the work of justification. By Him who speaketh truth he is declared righteous. The Lord imputes unto the believer the righteousness of Christ and pronounces him righteous before the universe. He transfers his sins to Jesus, the sinner’s representative, substitute, and surety. Upon Christ He lays the iniquity of every soul that believeth. “He hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).” (Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 392, 1958). Sr. White further declares, “Faith is the condition upon which God has seen fit to promise pardon to sinners; not that there is any virtue in faith whereby salvation is merited, but because faith can lay hold of the merits of Christ, the remedy provided for sin. Faith can present Christ’s perfect obedience instead of the sinner’s transgression and defection. When the sinner believes that Christ is his personal Saviour, then according to His unfailing promises, God pardons his sin and justifies him freely.” (Selected Messages, vol. 1, p. 363, 1958). Nicodemus’ transformation exemplifies the power of faith over works in achieving salvation.

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:5, KJV).

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SELF-REFLECTION

How can I delve deeper into the truth of spiritual rebirth, allowing it to reshape my character and priorities daily?

How can I adapt the message of the new birth to resonate with diverse audiences, from longtime members to seekers, while upholding Scriptural accuracy and Sr. White’s guidance?

What prevalent misunderstandings about self-righteousness and salvation persist in my community, and how can I correct them compassionately using the Bible and Sr. White’s writings?

In what practical steps can we, as a community, embody the transformed life in Christ, serving as vibrant witnesses of His redemptive power amid a world in need?