I find it interesting that Jesus was telling Nicodemus (the guy who wasn’t a prodigal son; the one who always knew & loved God) that he needed a brand-new life.

It raises those very questions you asked: Free from what? Why does Nicodemus need a new life?

I don’t know if I really have answers.

Here’s what I think is going on…

We can have confidence in our side of the equation (grew up knowing Jesus, going to church, doing the right things, read my Bible & pray, tithe, obey, never stray, etc.) and yet we are STILL like Nicodemus. Nicodemus wasn’t a bad dude. He was the best of the best, a well-known and respected religious leader. And Jesus told him he needed a new life.

Our side of the equation (our effort and careful observance of the rules) isn’t enough.

I like what Tim Keller says, “The Gospel is news of what God has done to reach us. It is not advice about what we must do to reach God.”

I think this is where we have a new life – that place where we realize “I don’t reach God.”

He made all the moves. He is the hero of my story, not me. My identity isn’t about my doings any more; now my identity comes from what He had done.

I know you already know all this and I’m not saying anything new here (and I’m probably not answering your question)

Thanks for commenting! Appreciate your thoughts.

It’s hard when you grow up in a Christian family, doing the Christian-right things, church, bible camps, family prayer, watching only pg movies, Christian music etc. etc. etc. it’s hard to see “the other side”. So when you talk about having a “new life” things can be new. You are fee… often I’m like “free from what?” Why would I need a new life, I’ve alwways been a Christian…(‘ve always had a relationship with God since I was young) you know what I’m saying?

I don’t know I guess… I’m not saying I’m perfect and sinless odviously I need forgiveness on a regular on-going basis … but just thought I’d share a piece of my background… and sometimes the way I think when I read about this subject.

Thanks for being a real PJ and Shari.