BIBL 110 – New Testament Bible Study Assignment
You will use the template below in order to complete a study of your selected passage. In your
study, you will use the skills of Observation, Interpretation, Correlation, and Application that
you have become familiar with through your reading in Everyday Bible Study. Be sure to read
the instructions document located on the assignment page in Canvas before completing this
template.
I. Passage Selection
For this assignment, you will be studying a chosen narrative from the Gospels that includes a
question asked by Jesus. You may choose between the following three passages:
1. Mark 10:17-31
2. John 3:1-21
3. John 4:1-26
Highlight the passage you have selected above.
II. Observation
A. Read you selected passage in at least two of the following translations: KJV, NKJV,
NASB, ESV, NIV, or CSB.
Have you read your passage in at least two of these translations?
oYes
oNo
B. Identify the basic elements of the story you are studying.
1. Main characters: (List them)
Nicodemus
Jesus
2. Immediate context of the passage: (50-100 words)
This event takes place towards the beginning of Christs ministry. Nicodemus comes to
Jesus in the night (Likely to not be seen) and asks about his ministry. (Vrede 1) Jesus explains
the importance of being born again. This is a crucial topic of the gospel as it introduces the idea
of rebirth and salvation through Jesus Christ, to be fulfilled in his resurrection.
3. Question(s) asked in narrative (list):
- “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!”
Nicodemus to Jesus
- “How can someone be born again if they are old?”
Nicodemus to Jesus
- “How can this be?”
Nicodemus to Jesus
- “you are Israel’s teacher and do you not understand these things?”
Jesus to Nicodemus
- “How then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?
Jesus to Nicodemus
C. Discuss basic observations that relate to key interpretive questions (approximately 150-
200 words each).
1. Who was involved in the story? What do we know about these individuals?
The only two characters we see in this story are Jesus Christ, and Nicodemus. Jesus is the son of
God. Jesus is part of the trinity, with the holy spirit and God the Father. Jesus has come to bring
light into the world, and the opportunity for salvation. Nicodemus was a Jew and was a part of
the ruling council. The Sanhedrin was a high-esteemed Jewish council that would convene when
issues arose. We know that Nicodemus was a devote follower of the law. He represents the
epitome of a “religious man”, while Jesus brings the opportunity of intimacy with Christ in a
brand-new way, that is very contradictory to what Nicodemus believed. The next appearance of
Nicodemus comes later in John, in chapter 7. Jesus is presented before the Sanhedrin, and
Nicodemus tries to give Jesus the chance to speak for himself. I believe this shows that
Nicodemus heart is “soft” towards the gospel, or at least inquisitive.
2. What event was happening in the passage?
This text only covers a very brief conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus. There is no
information given about the surrounding circumstances of there meeting.
(I am unsure how to write 150-200 words for this response without being verbose, but also stay
on topic. I am answering the question to the best of my ability.)
3. Where did the story take place and what do we know about this location?
The only setting given in the text is that Nicodemus comes to speak with Jesus in the night. From
outside context we know that this took place in Jerusalem. Jerusalem is in today’s Israel.
Jerusalem is a very significant location in Jesus’ ministry. Jerusalem is a coveted spot by Jews,
Muslims, and Christians. Jerusalem is also the location near Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
(I am unsure how to write 150-200 words for this response without being verbose, but also stay
on topic. I am answering the question to the best of my ability.
4. When did the event take place? What general phase of Jesus’ ministry was taking
place at this time?
It is hard to pinpoint exactly what time in history this conversation between Nicodemus and
Jesus occurs. The gospel of John focuses more on theology than the chronological order of
things. (Dunn 6) We can infer that this conversation between the two is likely in the early stages
based on the content before and after the conversation. We can also infer that it is in the earlier
stages because of the timing in which Nicodemus chooses to come speak with Jesus. From
looking at John chapter 2, verses 23-25 tell us that this conversation likely took place following
the Passover Feast. Verse 23 says “Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many
believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing.” This could also be the reason
why Nicodemus wanted to come and inquire about this Man working miracles. This takes place
before Jesus is presented to the Sanhedrin, before taking his disciples up on the mountain, and
before Jesus’ miracle with Lazarus.
5. Why did this event or conversation described in your text take place?
This conversation likely derived from Nicodemus curious soul. Nicodemus was an esteemed
pharisee and upholder of the law. Nicodemus was putting his “career” on the line by meeting the
controversial character of Jesus, which is why he met at night. Due to Jesus ability to know the
thoughts and status of a man’s heart, we can assume that Jesus preached to his most seriousness
need. Jesus tells Nicodemus of the importance of being born again, and that it is through Jesus
Christ alone is the way to salvation. In verse 6 Jesus emphasizes the importance of being born
again by the spirit. In summary, Nicodemus heart was inclined to speak with Jesus, and Jesus
spoke truth into his life.
6. How might you describe the sequence of events referred to in this passage? How did
Jesus communicate certain truths that were misunderstood, unknown, or rejected?
This passage Jesus speaks measures about salvation. It is broken up into two parts, his
conversation with Nicodemus, and then a clarifying and detailed portion of text after the
conversation. Jesus compared the renewal of the soul with being re-birthed. Jesus first lays out
why we must be saved, and then explain the means. He tells Nicodemus that to be saved he must
be born again. He then briefly shares what the Spirit is. In verse 8 he says “The wind blows
where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it
goes. So, it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” In verses 16-21, the writer describes how
this new life is possible through Jesus Christ. “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but
whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the
only Son of God.” John also repeats throughout his book the words “eternal life”, which notes its
importance. (Ford 1)
III. Interpretation
A. Determine the author’s main point. In 1-2 paragraphs (250-400 words) explain what you
think the author is trying to communicate in this passage. What truths do we learn from
Jesus? What does the conversation reveal?
The author is trying to get three major points across. He emphasizes that he must be born again,
and that it happens through Jesus Christ alone. Jesus says to Nicodemus “Truly, truly, I say to
you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3) Jesus then clarifies
this statement by saying “… unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the
kingdom of God.” (3:5) Jesus also briefly presents the idea that some people had doubts of the
earthly things Jesus said, so why would he even try to describe heavenly things? Jesus then goes
on in verse 16 to say that salvation is a gift directly from God, in the form of giving his Son. We
do not know whether this was Jesus speaking directly, or if it was the author writing. All
scripture is inspired by God, so the true “author” is God. The third point presented in this text is
the idea that Jesus is the light of the world. He tells of people hiding in the darkness for fear of
being exposed. He contrasts this with people who come to the light (himself) whose works are
revealed and shown to “have been carried out in God.” He also emphasizes that Jesus’ person is
not here to condemn the world. I find it interesting that Jesus is not there to enforce the “just”
attribute of God the creator. Job 34:12 “sure”, God will not act wickedly, And the Almighty will
not pervert justice.’
B. Based on your answer above, write out one principle from this passage. You should be
able to express this principle in 1-3 sentences.
God gifted his only Son to present to us opportunity for new, everlasting life. This new life is
found through Jesus Christ.
IV. Correlation
A. How does your passage fit within the metanarrative of the Bible? State what type of story
you believe this to be (e.g., creation, fall, redemption, or new creation) and explain why
you believe this to be so. Your explanation should be approximately 150-200 words in
length.
The gospel is the “key” to the bible. God created earth and man, and then there was the fall. Man
went into a broken state in desperate need of grace. Jesus is this grace that we so desperately
needed. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son.” (3:16) This passage is part of
the “new creation” type. Being born again through Jesus is what gives the chance at being new
creation. Jesus gives us this opportunity through him, “…that whoever believes in Him should
not perish but have eternal life.” (3:16) and offers the spirit to us. “…so, it is with everyone who
is born of the spirit.” (3:8) Through the spirit working in us we become new creation and grow in
holiness, being set apart from sin and the world. Jesus calls us from the darkness into the light
with him. This idea of darkness into light could be seen as “new creation”.
B. How does your passage reflect other truths found in the Scriptures? State and explain at
least one way that the principle of this passage can be identified elsewhere in the Bible.
Your explanation should be approximately 150-200 words in length.
There are several other places in the bible where there is talk of new creation, and the
idea of being born again in Christ. Scripture will always support scripture. 2 Corinthians 5:16-18
“From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once
regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in
Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from
God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”
These scriptures support the idea of renewal, new life, and being born into new creation. Romans
6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our
Lord.” This gift of new creation comes directly from God’s sacrifice, Jesus Christ.
C. How does your passage reflect the person and work of Jesus Christ? State and explain at
least one way that the principle of this passage identifies something of the person and
work of Jesus Christ. Your explanation should be approximately 150-200 words in
length.
The conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus first points to the person of Jesus and his
heart for people. As previously mentioned, Jesus understands the exact needs of
Nicodemus and where is doubt layed and addressed it. He knows exactly what needed to
be said to give Nicodemus the chance at salvation. The second aspect of this text is Jesus
as the sole way of salvation. First, he speaks truth of the need for salvation, “Do not
marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again’’ (3:7) Then Jesus explains to
Nicodemus what this looks. He explains the spirit as “The wind blows where it was
wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it
goes. So, it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (3:8) Jesus then explains after his
conversation with Nicodemus how he is sent by God to do this. We see this in John 3:16,
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him
should not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus sees a need, does what he can to fill it, and
then explains why.
V. Application
What points of application can be made using the four questions below? State and explain at
least one point of application for each of these four questions. Your response to each point of
application should be approximately 100-200 words in length.
A. The question of duty. What does your passage reveal about the duty of individuals today?
It is hard to see any practical “duty’ for us through this passage. However, it is obvious in
scripture that we are called to share the gospel. We are called to share the good news of Jesus
Christ and the opportunity to be born again. This gift God has given, Jesus, is something that
needed to be shared then, and needs to be shared now. With our knowledge of the truth, it would
be wrong of us as Christians to keep it to ourselves. Matthew 4:19 “Follow me, and I will make
you fishers of Men”.
B. The question of character. What does your passage reveal about the way we are to live
our lives?
In this passage we see Jesus being gentle, emotionally intelligent, and thorough. We can
learn to grow in each of these areas. Gentleness that is sometimes often thought of in today’s
culture to be weak, but I would strongly disagree. Jesus in his perfection displayed gentleness
perfectly. Whether it was flipping tables in the temple, or responding to Nicodemus, he showed
just enough” force” to be gentle but heard. While we do not have the capability of knowing the
exact condition of another heart like Jesus, we can still be emotionally aware of lost ones needs.
We also Jesus responds in different ways for Nicodemus to gain insight. We can also be patient
with people when we share the gospel.
C. The question of goals. What does your passage reveal about the goals and priorities that
Christians should adopt?
Our goals and priorities should all be centered around where God wants us to be. God wanted
Jesus there in that moment to witness to Nicodemus. We need to listen to the spirit and be
obedient to it. Our life should be centered around the gospel message and sharing it those who
are unsaved and broken. We should strive to make these attributes of Jesus our own, and grow in
him through sanctification.
D. The question of discernment. What does the passage reveal about how we should view the
Christian life and the world in which we live?
We need to understand that we live in a fallen world and cannot expect perfection, or even an
awareness of what is right and wrong, from those who are unsaved. We need to be patient like
Jesus was with Nicodemus. The world is to be viewed as a mission field and share the gospel in
both truth and love to the unreached. Our lives as Christians should be centered around
glorifying God. We pursue God first in our own lives and then go to share with others the
treasure that we have found. To put it simply, to know God, and make him known.
VI. Conclusion
Summarize your major points and concluding thoughts here. What were the major truths and
points of application conveyed in the passage? What stood out to you the most? Response should
be approximately 150-200 words.
Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus presented major biblical truths as well as showed more
about Jesus’ character and his ministry. Jesus presented two main truths, the importance of being
born again, and the fact that one can only be saved through Jesus Christ. John 3:3, ““Truly, truly,
I say to you, unless one isLbornLagain, he cannotLsee the kingdom of God.” John 3:14-15 “AndLas
Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of ManLbe lifted up, that whoever
believesLin himLmay have eternal life.” Jesus teaches Nicodemus that salvation comes from
rebirth of the spirit that does not happen apart from Jesus himself. This applies to my life as I am
sharing the gospel to others, to include these foundational truths. Especially to certain religions
such as Judaism and Mormonism, to stress Jesus’ presence as fully God and fully man. These
verses are a ‘go-to’ for showing Jesus as God.
VII. Bibliography
Quinn, Russell D.LExpectation and Fulfillment of the Gift of the Holy Spirit in the Gospel of
John, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ann Arbor, 2010. ProQuest,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com
%2Fdissertations-theses%2Fexpectation-fulfillment-gift-holy-spirit-gospel%2Fdocview
%2F821438311%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Vrede, Keith V. "A CONTRAST BETWEEN NICODEMUS AND JOHN THE BAPTIST IN
THE GOSPEL OF JOHN.",Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, vol. 57, no. 4,
2014, pp. 715-726. ProQuest, http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fscholarly-journals%2Fcontrast-between-nicodemus-john-
baptist-gospel%2Fdocview%2F1645737104%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085.
Ford, David F. "Meeting Nicodemus: A Case Study in Daring Theological
Interpretation.",Scottish Journal of Theology, vol. 66, no. 1, 2013, pp. 1-17. ProQuest,
http://ezproxy.liberty.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fscholarly-
journals%2Fmeeting-nicodemus-case-study-daring-theological%2Fdocview
%2F1289858099%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D12085,
doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0036930612000270.
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)
