Harmony of the Gospels [Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night]

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus, as recorded in John chapter 3. He explains Nicodemus’ approach to Jesus by night out of fear and curiosity about salvation. Fr. Matthias examines the necessity of being “born again” to see the kingdom of God, emphasizing the spiritual rebirth through baptism by water and the Spirit. Using analogies such as birth in the womb, he highlights the difference between earthly understanding and heavenly realities. Fr. Matthias also discusses the significance of baptism as a sacrament that combines physical action with spiritual transformation, addressing why infants are baptized and how baptism removes original sin. He outlines Jesus’ role as the divine source of salvation and connects the lifted bronze serpent in the wilderness to Christ’s crucifixion as a symbol of healing and eternal life. Further, Fr. Matthias reflects on the role of John the Baptist and the authority of Christ’s disciples to baptize. He underscores the importance of faith in Christ for eternal life and the rejection of light by those who love darkness. This study deepens understanding of salvation, baptism, and the divinity of Christ from a biblical and theological perspective.