Jesus Changed the World
Rusty Wirt   -   April 5, 2026

Jesus Changed the World

 Last Sunday we examined how Jesus’ life and teaching shaped human history. The massive impact of Jesus reminds us, just as the angel said to Mary the mother of Jesus, that “… His kingdom will never end.” On this Easter Sunday morning, we will move the conversation from the global and historical perspective to a personal one. Today will examine 22 words that were first shared in a one-on-one conversation that have since reverberated throughout history for 20 Centuries. These words that changed Nicodemus’ life forever, can also change you. To get this conversation started, all you need to do is be spiritually curious.

REVIEW

  1. Human Rights & the Idea of Universal Human Dignity
  2. Hospitals & Institutional Charity
  3. Education, Literacy & the University System
  4. Art, Music, and Cultural Development
  5. The Concept of Holidays (“Holy Days”)
  6. Abolition Movements & Social Reform

None of this would have happened without the resurrection of Jesus.

Key Quote

“Given the facts agreed upon by the majority of scholars, the resurrection emerges as the best explanation when assessed by standard historiographical criteria.” “(from The Resurrection of Jesus”, Mike Licona).

The resurrection was powerful in its effect, because it was historical in its essence.

We are going to examine passage of Scripture that has two parts

  • Conversation (personal)
  • Explanation (actionable)

 

Religion cannot save you (vv. 1–2).

    1. If anyone could be saved by religion, it was Nicodemus
      1. A Pharisee (new the Bible)
      2. A Ruler of the Jews (had power over his community)
      3. The teacher of Israel (had the respect of his peers)
    2. If religion cannot save you, then you cannot save you
      1. When you make life all about satisfying yourself alone, you will discover that you alone are enough to satisfy you.
  2. You must be born again (v. 3)
    1. This new birth is:
      1. Spiritual in nature
      2. Initiated by the Holy Spirit
      3. Provided God through Jesus
  3. Here’s how you are saved- or the explanation to the conversation 3:16
    1. John explains the rich imagery of Jesus’ words in way that we can all understand
    2. Οὕτως γὰρ ἠγάπησεν ὁ θεὸς τὸν κόσμον, ὥστε τὸν υἱὸν τὸν μονογενῆ ἔδωκεν, ἵνα πᾶς ὁ πιστεύων εἰς αὐτὸν μὴ ἀπόληται ἀλλ’ ἔχῃ ζωὴν αἰώνιον.

John is not inviting us to have knowledge about God or belief that God exists. He is inviting you and me to personally place my trust in Christ, the unique Son of God.

 

The World is loved by God, but broken by sin

God’s sacrifice is real in essence and effective in its effect

Our response is to believe and receive eternal life