This weekend's message, Ed Windhausen explores the concept of "Making Room for God to Move." Through a blend of biblical stories, personal anecdotes, and practical applications, Ed challenges us to examine our lives and make space for God's transformative power. The sermon draws from John 3 and Romans 7, focusing on the story of Nicodemus and the Apostle Paul's struggle with sin.

Ed begins with a thought-provoking story about two sons of a king who debate whether a gentleman is born or made. One son finds a cat trained to serve tea, believing it proves that behavior can be taught. The other son, unable to find evidence, eventually reveals the cat's true nature by releasing mice, causing the cat to revert to its instincts. This story serves as a metaphor for human nature and our struggle with sin.

Just like the cat, humans can change their outward behavior, but our sinful nature remains. Society often believes that external changes can lead to internal transformation, but the Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 7 that our sinful nature is ever-present. Paul laments, "I desire to do good, but I cannot do it," highlighting the internal battle we all face.

Who Was Nicodemus?
Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a respected religious leader. Despite his status, he sought Jesus at night, yearning for something more than the law could offer. Jesus tells Nicodemus that he must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God, a concept that confuses Nicodemus.

The Mystery of Being Born Again
Jesus explains that being born again involves a spiritual rebirth, not a physical one. This new birth is a mystery, even to religious experts like Nicodemus. Jesus uses the analogy of the wind, which blows where it pleases, to illustrate the unpredictable and transformative nature of the Spirit.

Chasing Spiritual Highs
Many people today chase after spiritual highs, moving from church to church in search of excitement. However, true transformation requires commitment and participation in the life of the church. Jesus calls us to be born again, to experience a new life that goes beyond temporary emotional experiences.

The Eye of the Needle
Jesus uses the illustration of a camel passing through the eye of a needle to describe the difficulty of entering the Kingdom of God. This metaphor emphasizes the need for humility and surrender. Just as a camel must kneel and crawl to pass through the small gate, we must humble ourselves and rely on God's grace.

A New Birth
In our spiritual rebirth, God makes us new. We receive new eyes to see by faith, a new mind to set our thoughts on Christ, and new strength to walk in His ways. This transformation is not something we achieve on our own; it is a gift from God.

The Role of Jesus
Jesus' sacrifice on the cross makes this new birth possible. By His stripes, we are healed. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, Jesus was lifted up so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life.

Embracing the New Birth
This week, challenge yourself to make room for God to move in your life. Reflect on the areas where you need transformation and surrender them to God. Remember that true change comes from within, through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Are you ready for baptism?
Deciding to get baptized is a significant choice that requires thoughtful consideration. Here are some verses to help you determine if you are ready for baptism:

Mark 16:14-16

Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen. He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Baptism goes hand in hand with believing. To determine if you're ready for baptism, ask yourself the following questions:

Do you feel remorse for any actions that conflict with God's plan?

Do you believe Jesus is the Messiah and the only one who can save you from your sins and restore your relationship with God?

Are you eager to follow Him and lead a renewed and transformed life with the guidance of the Holy Spirit?

Take the Next Step.

Questions for Reflection
1. What areas of your life are you trying to change through your own efforts?

2. How can you make room for God to move in those areas?

3. Are you chasing after spiritual highs, or are you committed to a deeper, lasting transformation?

A Call to Action
Let go of the baggage that weighs you down and trust in God's transformative power. Just as Jonathan had to let go of the branch to be saved, we must let go of our old ways and embrace the new life that God offers.

Making room for God to move requires humility, surrender, and a willingness to be transformed from the inside out. As we reflect on the story of Nicodemus and the teachings of Jesus, let us commit to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. Embrace the new birth and experience the fullness of life that comes from being born again.