Nicodemus means “Conqueror.” A mighty man of valor came to visit Jesus in the dark of the night, wanting to know who He was. Jesus explains the new birth to him, to which Nicodemus is incredulous, naturally so as Nicodemus is a logical man of this world. Notice part of Jesus’ answer to him. I know I have glossed over this sentence for years.
“No one has risen into the heavenly realm except the Son of Man who also exists in heaven,” (John 3:13 TPT). Here is the footnote for this verse: “Jesus shares a mystery with Nicodemus. While he was on the earth ministering, Jesus was also in heaven in the spirit realm. Being in two places at the same time is also the privilege given to every believer. We are seated with Christ in the heavenly realm and living our earthly life to please him. . . . Jesus is telling Nicodemus that only those who are seated in the heavenly realm will understand spiritual truths.”
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Mary, the mother of Jesus, came to Him at a wedding feast and told Him the host had run out of wine. Mary spoke to Jesus in this way, “‘They have no wine, can’t you do something about it?’ Interpreting Mary’s words for today we could say, ‘Religion has failed, it has run out of wine.’ The traditions of religion cannot gladden the heart, but Jesus can. Moses (the Law) turned water into blood, but Jesus (grace) turned water into wine.” (Footnote p. 19 TPT) I have watched hundreds, maybe thousands, go to church and do all the stand-ups-sit-downs- sing-this-say-that and equally watched them trudge home just as miserable as when they came in. That isn’t fire. Passion is fire. What does Jesus want to see? He wants His people to be full of joy, laughing out loud, singing, dancing, and the shocking one is shouting! Shouting in church? Can you imagine? He wants our hands in the air in a state of glad surrender. You may clap your hands to keep time with the music but clapping your hands to honor Jesus is a dishonor. He’s not a soccer star! He’s God! Go ahead! Love Him out loud! |
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