Pictures of Jesus: The Gift of God (John 3:1–21)

In this lecture, Don Carson explores Jesus's conversation with Nicodemus in John, where Jesus teaches the necessity of being "born again" through the Spirit for spiritual renewal and entry into the Kingdom of God. Carson explains the symbolism of light and darkness in the passage, connects new birth to Old Testament promises, and highlights the transformative power of the Spirit. Carson also discusses the role of faith in receiving eternal life, with God's love as the motivation behind Jesus's sacrifice.

He teaches the following:

• How Jesus's response to Nicodemus challenges his understanding of the Kingdom of God
• The theme of light versus darkness illustrates the spiritual blindness of unbelievers
• How the concept of new birth is rooted in Old Testament passages
• Nicodemus's confused focus on national transformation instead of personal renewal
• How Jesus challenges Nicodemus to accept his testimony based on his divine authority
• The love of God is the motivation for Jesus's sacrifice and the new birth