Re:Verse reading–John 3:1-21 (day five) “The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Jesus teaches Nicodemus that “new birth” is a sovereign work of God’s Spirit. Birth is the perfect illustration. We didn’t do anything to be born (physically). We can’t do anything to be born (spiritually). The only way for a person to be “born again” is by the work of the Spirit of God. There are uncertainties about the wind. Where? Why? When? But we do know with certainty, there is evidence of its presence. Just as in the Christian life, there is conviction, faith, and fruit.
You’re a Christian because the Spirit of God blew where he wished, and he wished to blow inside your soul. He swept through your heart and brought you to life; he made you alive to God.- Matt Carter
This is as clear a description of this passage that Ive ever heard. Im going to memorize it. Thank you so much, Scott.
I am convinced that the only way for a person to be “born again” is by the work of the Spirit of God.
I like the wind metaphor. The Spirit of God is omnipresent and invisible, making His presence known by the effects of His action. Just as we know that the wind is present when the boat’s sail is full. We know God is at work when more and more people believe in Jesus and come closer to Him.