Best of Replay (Episode 1147)

Today’s episode, which first aired in the spring of 2025, explores the transformational encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus, and the mysterious, powerful gift of spiritual rebirth. Drawing from the song “Born Again” from our musical The Disciple Whom Jesus Loves, we reflect on one of Jesus’ most profound teachings, and one of Scripture’s most iconic conversations.

Nicodemus, a respected Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, sought out Jesus under the cover of night. Why? Because something in him was stirred. He had heard Jesus’ teachings. He had witnessed or heard of His miracles. And though fear may have delayed him, curiosity and hunger for truth brought him to the Light.

Jesus didn’t rebuke him. Instead, He offered Nicodemus, and all of us, a path not of ritual, but of rebirth.

The song captures the awe and confusion of this encounter. Nicodemus asks the very human question: “How can a man be born when he is old?” But Jesus explains: this isn’t about biology. 

It’s about transformation.

“That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.”

To be born again means to be remade by the Spirit, to step into new life, with a new heart, a new identity, and a new future.

Takeaways:

• Rebirth Is Necessary: Jesus doesn’t say being born again is optional: it’s essential. It’s not about reform, but resurrection.
• Rebirth Is Spiritual: It’s not a second chance at your old life. It’s a brand-new life from above, initiated and sustained by the Holy Spirit.
• Rebirth Is Mysterious, Yet Real: Like the wind, we can’t see the Spirit directly, but we can see His effects: peace, love, transformation, joy.

We meet Nicodemus in the shadows, but the Gospel of John shows his growing courage. He speaks up for Jesus later and helps care for His body after the crucifixion. Tradition holds that Nicodemus became a bold follower of Christ, even suffering martyrdom.

His life reminds us: it’s never too late to be made new. No matter your background, your title, or your doubts. Jesus still offers new birth.