Unity

UNITY
John 10:30
“I and the Father are one.”

We just learned that Nicodemus was a numbers person, in 188 devotion. Do you think that he understood about being born again? Believing in Jesus is a very big deal, and is an absolute necessity if we want to be accepted into God’s family.

Do you think Nicodemus was thinking about Jesus’ words as he rubbed myrrh and spices onto His body, wrapping it in linen in preparation for His burial? (John 19:39-44).

He just witnessed the Man—whom he called Rabbi (teacher), acknowledging that God was with Him—crucified on a cross. If Nicodemus decided to believe Jesus, then he was born again at precisely the moment he made that choice—the only choice that guaranteed him salvation and eternal life.

There may be a pivotal moment in your life when it dawns on you that the choice made now will direct your life from now on. How do you think Nicodemus reacted after Jesus’ lecture that as Israel’s teacher (Pharisee), he knew little about spiritual things? (John 3:10-17).

Gulp.

You can believe that Jesus’ reprimand seared Nicodemus’ heart. Jesus’ words must have ping-ponged around his brain, forcing a face to face confrontation with his own misunderstanding. Can you imagine Nicodemus peering skywards, shrieking, “I’m a numbers person!”

After all, he was the perfect man, living the perfect life, sure of his place in God’s kingdom. (I believe that Nicodemus knew that this decision was pivotal in his life, and chose to believe in Jesus--but that's just me.)

Nicodemus’ choice was not only pivotal, but also perfect timing. He must have witnessed the crucifixion, and now he is freshly saved—all his sins forgiven. WOW! That is pivotal!

Jesus prayed for Nicodemus (and for us) the night before He was crucified.

Facing His own horrible death, Jesus prayed not only for Himself—but also for His disciples—and for us! “My prayer is not for them alone. (Disciples). I pray also for those who will believe in Me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world will believe that You have sent Me.” (John 3:20-21).

God calls His children to unity—with Him and all believers.

Take Home Nugget

The number one—unity. Let us, being one in Christ, glorify God with one mind, one voice.

J.D. Griffith

Make us one, Lord, make us one;
Holy Spirit, make us one.
Let Your love flow so the world will know
We are one in You.

Cymbala

Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Unity
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff

For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Written for Bible Study for Kids.