SERIES: THE SEARCH FOR ANSWERS (1 OF 2)
Scripture: John 3:1-21
This content is part of a series.
NOTE: This sermon is part 1 and 2 of a 5 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.
PREVIEWS:
Part 1: Do I Really Need to Be Born Again?
Series: The Search For Answers
Stuart Briscoe
John 3:1-21
Ever since President Jimmy Carter announced that he had been "born again," a profound biblical expression, the term has been greatly devalued. But Jesus did say, "You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.'" So we should take is seriously.
I. An Explanation.
A. "Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." v. 3
1. The speaker-Jesus who "did not need man's testimony about man."
2. The listener-a man named Nicodemus.
a. A Pharisee-a deeply devout religious person.
b. A member of the Sanhedrin-part of the ruling elite.
c. The teacher of Israel-a person of standing and significance.
3. The statement-a matter of eternal consequence.
a. To be "born again" = "Begotten from above," "born anew."
i. Because the human condition necessitates divine action.
ii. Because the human condition requires radical intervention.
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Part 2: Can I Be a Christian Without Going to Church?
Series: The Search For Answers
Stuart Briscoe
Acts 11:19f
While church attendance in America is declining, many non-attenders claim to be Christians, apparently assuming that one need not be in church to be Christian. Perhaps a study of what it means to be Christian and what is meant by church would be helpful.
I. What Did It Mean Originally to Be Called Christian?
A. The first people called "Christians" were already known as "disciples" (v. 26). Disciples were learners, followers, and imitators of a teacher.
B. They became disciples as a result of dramatic human/divine activity.
1. Persecuted refugees fearlessly proclaimed "the Lord Jesus." v. 20
2. "The Lord's hand was with them" signifying divine intervention. v. 21a
3. People "believed and turned to the Lord" indicating conversion. v. 21b
4. The converts were encouraged "to remain true to the Lord." v. 23
5. A "great number of people were brought to the Lord." v. 24
C. These Christians had a deep commitment to the person of the Lord Jesus.
PREVIEWS:
Part 1: Do I Really Need to Be Born Again?
Series: The Search For Answers
Stuart Briscoe
John 3:1-21
Ever since President Jimmy Carter announced that he had been "born again," a profound biblical expression, the term has been greatly devalued. But Jesus did say, "You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.'" So we should take is seriously.
I. An Explanation.
A. "Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." v. 3
1. The speaker-Jesus who "did not need man's testimony about man."
2. The listener-a man named Nicodemus.
a. A Pharisee-a deeply devout religious person.
b. A member of the Sanhedrin-part of the ruling elite.
c. The teacher of Israel-a person of standing and significance.
3. The statement-a matter of eternal consequence.
a. To be "born again" = "Begotten from above," "born anew."
i. Because the human condition necessitates divine action.
ii. Because the human condition requires radical intervention.
--------------------
Part 2: Can I Be a Christian Without Going to Church?
Series: The Search For Answers
Stuart Briscoe
Acts 11:19f
While church attendance in America is declining, many non-attenders claim to be Christians, apparently assuming that one need not be in church to be Christian. Perhaps a study of what it means to be Christian and what is meant by church would be helpful.
I. What Did It Mean Originally to Be Called Christian?
A. The first people called "Christians" were already known as "disciples" (v. 26). Disciples were learners, followers, and imitators of a teacher.
B. They became disciples as a result of dramatic human/divine activity.
1. Persecuted refugees fearlessly proclaimed "the Lord Jesus." v. 20
2. "The Lord's hand was with them" signifying divine intervention. v. 21a
3. People "believed and turned to the Lord" indicating conversion. v. 21b
4. The converts were encouraged "to remain true to the Lord." v. 23
5. A "great number of people were brought to the Lord." v. 24
C. These Christians had a deep commitment to the person of the Lord Jesus.
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