The New Birth

07/30/23 • 37 min

In this sermon, Pastor Chris focuses on the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3:1-12. He emphasizes the importance of being "born again" or "born from above" as a necessary experience for anyone to enter the kingdom of God. The concept of being born again is not limited to a particular religious denomination or lifestyle. It is about humbly accepting our powerlessness to save ourselves and receiving the new life that Jesus offers through the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Chris explains that being born again is not a result of our own efforts but a gracious work of God. It involves acknowledging our sinful nature and recognizing the need for Jesus' salvation. He draws connections to Old Testament passages like Ezekiel 36 and 37, which speak of cleansing with water and the promise of the Holy Spirit, symbolizing spiritual rebirth.

The sermon encourages listeners to accept the gift of being born again by faith and not to delay in making this decision. Pastor Chris offers prayer for those seeking guidance and assurance in accepting the new birth offered by Jesus. He points to Nicodemus as a possible example of someone who may have come to experience the new life with Jesus.

www.venicepres.org

www.venicepres.org

Previous Episode

Religion is Hazardous to Your Health

In this sermon, Pastor Chris focuses on the interaction between Jesus and Nicodemus in John chapter three. He highlights that Nicodemus, a devoutly religious man, comes to Jesus seeking knowledge and acknowledges the signs that Jesus has performed as evidence of God's presence with Him. However, Jesus points out that true entry into the kingdom of God requires being "born again" or experiencing a spiritual rebirth through water and the Spirit.

Pastor Chris emphasizes that being a Christian is not merely about religious actions or good works but rather receiving the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. He shares personal experiences and the testimonies of others who have undergone a transformative encounter with Christ, leading to a true and authentic relationship with Him. He warns against the dangers of relying solely on religious practices without experiencing the new birth in Christ.

The sermon encourages listeners to come to Jesus with humility and openness, acknowledging their need for Him, and experiencing the assurance of eternal life through His sacrifice. Pastor Chris concludes with a prayer for those who may be feeling spiritually unsatisfied or burdened, inviting them to find rest and peace in Jesus Christ.

www.venicepres.org

Next Episode

Deep and Wide

Pastor Carolyn's sermon focuses on a continuation of the dialogue between Jesus and Nicodemus in the book of John, particularly John 3:16-17. She underscores God's profound love for the world, which serves as the driving force behind sending His Son, Jesus, to save humanity. The sermon highlights the gospel message, portraying it as the nucleus of Christian beliefs, expressing God's love and Christ's mission to rescue rather than condemn. It underscores how this message binds the Old Testament narratives, prophecies, and writings together, serving as the bedrock of faith and the heart of God's grand design. Addressing the human condition marred by sin, the sermon elaborates on the necessity of atonement and the cost Jesus paid, reconciling humanity with God's justice and holiness. Pastor Carolyn emphasizes that salvation is grounded in a sincere belief and faith in Jesus, a transformational surrender of the heart and life. Throughout the sermon, she reassures listeners of God's unchanging love and points to various verses demonstrating that believers are eternally connected to that love. Ultimately, the sermon concludes with a promise of eternal life through Christ, inviting personal reflection and response to the profound message of God's love and salvation.