In this message from The Gospel of John chapter 3, we step into a nighttime conversation that exposes the limits of religion, morality, and even miracles.

Jesus has just made His public debut in Jerusalem—cleansing the Temple, performing signs, and drawing massive crowds during Passover. Many believed in Him because of what they saw. Yet John tells us something startling: Jesus did not believe in their belief. Faith built on signs alone is not the kind of faith He can trust.

Enter Nicodemus—a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin, and the very best humanity has to offer. Educated, disciplined, moral, and deeply religious, Nicodemus comes to Jesus drawn by the miraculous. But instead of affirming his résumé, Jesus confronts him with a shocking truth:

“Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

This teaching unpacks what it means to be born again—born from above. Jesus isn’t adding another religious step; He’s declaring the bankruptcy of human effort altogether. Entrance into God’s kingdom doesn’t come through discipline, morality, or miracles—it comes through spiritual rebirth.

Using Old Testament imagery from Numbers 21, Jesus points Nicodemus (and us) to the only hope for poisoned, dying people: to look in faith at the One who would be lifted up.

This episode helps shape the culture of Calvary Kona—a church centered on the Word of God, walking by faith, and trusting that signs and wonders follow those who pursue Jesus, not the other way around.

If you’ve ever wondered whether being “good,” “religious,” or even spiritually disciplined is enough—this conversation is for you.