John 3: Small Group Bible Study.pdf

The Gospel of John small group Bible study for Chapter 3 focuses on the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus, a Pharisee. The study is designed for weekly live discussions, with daily individual or partnered study using six provided questions.

Key Points:

1. Nicodemus' Character: Nicodemus is introduced as a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews (John 3:1, 10), who later defends Jesus (John 7:45-52) and helps bury him (John 19:38-42).

2. Nicodemus' Visit: Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, possibly for reasons such as:
- Seeking understanding of Jesus' teachings without public scrutiny.
- Recognizing Jesus' divine authority.
- Wanting to learn more about Jesus' miracles and teachings.

3. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus reveals six spiritual truths about himself:
- He must be lifted up (crucified) to draw all people to him (John 3:14).
- He speaks what he knows, testifying to what he has seen (John 3:11).
- He came from heaven, sent by God (John 3:13, 31).
- He alone has the authority to judge, as he is the Son of Man (John 3:13, 31).
- He came to save the world, not to condemn it (John 3:17).
- Believing in him is essential for eternal life (John 3:15, 16, 18).

4. Belief and Salvation: Jesus emphasizes the importance of belief:
- Believing in him is necessary for eternal life (John 3:15, 16, 18).
- Belief is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative spiritual experience, like the wind (John 3:8).

5. Moses and the Bronze Snake: Moses lifted up the bronze snake in the desert as a symbol of salvation, prefiguring Jesus' crucifixion (John 3:14, Numbers 21:9).