One of the best parts of my childhood was riding bikes around the neighborhood in the summertime until either the sun began to set, or I heard my mom’s voice calling. Before cell phones, we were left to our own devices to find adventure on our two wheels of freedom. But when one of us heard our mom’s voice, we high-tailed it home. Do you remember what it was she would say to get your attention? Calling your full name in a tone that left no room for interpretation. The voice that could be heard three houses down. This is the effect I get when I read the words, “Truly, truly” that occur three different times among the red-letter words of Jesus in John’s third chapter. These two words act as a stop sign of sorts. “Truly, truly” – Listen! This is important. “Truly, truly” – Pay attention! Jesus is making a point in his conversation with Nicodemus with these words, and they remain as a reminder to us to also take note and listen. Nicodemus was the “teacher of Israel” (v.10) but he could not understand the things Jesus was telling him. “Truly, truly” – a rebirth is needed (v.3) that involves the Spirit (v.5). Nicodemus was having difficulty understanding that the key to salvation was faith in Jesus as the Son of God.
I think that sometimes we get so caught up in verse 16 that we forget that at the time Jesus spoke these words, the cross was still to come.
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
When Jesus said that God “gave his only Son” the implication of that was still unknown even though it had been prophesied about in Isaiah 53. His message was a radical one to a Jew – God was providing salvation for all the world, not just the Jewish nation. Nicodemus’ sight was dimmed by what he was expecting to see and missed the reality of what was in front of him. I wonder if sometimes we are guilty of the same thing.
As we continue into the chapter, John the Baptist provides great clarity about Jesus to his disciples that serves as a testimony for us in verse 30, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” John once again displays his great humility for the role that he was assigned – to prepare the way.
9 The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore, this joy of mine is now complete.“
The difference between the two men stands in stark contrast, one who should have known and one who fully knew. Which one do you identify with?
35 The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.“
Giving God the Glory 