Today's Devotion: In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.a” (a Or born from above; The Holy Bible: New International Version. electronic ed. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. Jn 3:3)

According to the Teacher's Commentary, the theme of this Bible chapter is salvation. Nicodemus, who Jesus answers, understands that Jesus is a great teacher who came from God, but does not understand the real message of Jesus' teaching--- that He is the Son of God who has come to Earth to save Israel.

Today's Comments: This commentary goes on to state that Nicodemus was not only a key religious figure, but as a member of the Jewish ruling council, he was a key political leader, as well. By his words, Jesus meant that one could not attain relationship with God through the law. It is through spiritual rebirth and the grace of God that we attain that relationship. And that relationship begins with God's forgiveness of our failures and our sins. It is by our acknowledgement that we can do nothing without God that begins that relationship with Him. Just as fear of God is the beginning of wisdom, His Grace is the beginning of our relationship with Him.