This is the Introduction to the Sermon. You will receive the full manuscript sermon in Word format when you purchase.
Title: “Jesus and the Conflicted Man”
Series: ENCOUNTERING JESUS
Nicodemus was at the top of the pyramid of Israelite society. He has been sifted and tested and voted on and scrutinized. He has a resume as long as your arm. He is powerful, knowledgeable—an extraordinary man in a culture devoted to God. In his day if you asked an Israelite, 'Is Nicodemus going to heaven?' he'd likely respond, 'If Nicodemus isn't going to heaven, nobody's going to heaven.' He is a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin. He is scrupulous in his obedience to Law, blameless in the sight of men.
But Nicodemus comes to Jesus experiencing a conflict of emotions and religious tradition that he is trying to address. There appears to be a spiritual tug of war going on within him. And as we read his account you might be surprised to discover how God honors his searching process. Maybe Nicodemus represents you today, as you search to determine who Jesus is and what your response should be to Him. Perhaps you can identify with the spiritual conflict that he’s experiencing.
There are three important truths that we can learn today that I think will help you on your search: