In John 3:1–15, Jesus tells Nicodemus that religious knowledge, morality, status, and good works are not enough to enter the kingdom of God. Even this respected Pharisee needed what every sinner needs: to be born again.
This sermon explains that the new birth is not self-improvement or outward religious behavior. It is a sovereign work of God where he gives a person a new heart, cleanses them from sin, and brings them from spiritual death to life. Just as Israel had to look to the bronze serpent in the wilderness to be saved, sinners must look to Jesus Christ, who was lifted up on the cross, to receive eternal life. The Christian life begins with looking to Jesus, but it does not move beyond him. Believers continue by daily looking to Christ, trusting him, depending on him, and holding fast to the Savior who gives life.
The saving look of faith isn’t a glance, it’s a gaze. Christians don’t run to Jesus for salvation and then run along their merry way. Christians run to Jesus and hold onto him!
Sermon Clip
The message notes for the sermon can be downloaded by clicking on the “save” button.
Island Pond Baptist Church is an SBC church in Hampstead, NH, just seconds from Derry. We have many people at our church from surrounding towns as well. If you live in Southern New Hampshire, we would love for you to come and visit!
Watch other Island Pond sermons here.