Have you ever torn apart your house in a rushed fury in search of your wallet or car keys? You know, the ones that were in your hand the entire time? Or how about the last time you could not believe your ears at the news someone was relaying to you, so you made him repeat it over and over?
Arguably, it is human nature to want to know or see the answer so bad that our senses can be blinded to what is right in front of us. As followers in Christ, we might recognize this sometimes when growing in our faith or sharing it with others. In the third chapter of John, Nicodemus particularly illustrates this same kind of behavior as he tries to understand salvation. Thus, he makes Jesus repeat himself…over and over again. In fact, Jesus ends up saying, “I tell you the truth” three times before the conversation ends!
“You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?” – John 3:10-12 (NIV)
If you have ever had a tough conversation with someone about salvation similar to this one, be confident in knowing that no matter what God is in control and through the Holy Spirit. He promises us: wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:13, Luke 12:11-12), truth (John 16:12-15); and intercession – when you don’t know what to pray (Romans 8:26).
If you are at all seeking guidance about how to share your faith, I would suggest going over the examples of evangelism Jesus gives in the book of John. It gives us a great account of seven miracles by Jesus and seven “I am” declarations that prove Jesus is God.
Author: Kate Anderson