John 3:11

"Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and don’t understand these things?"

Key Reflection

This exchange challenges Nicodemus's understanding, suggesting that even a religious leader like him may be missing the spiritual truths Jesus imparts. It highlights the need for genuine spiritual insight beyond mere intellectual knowledge.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 11. We speak. Jesus here speaks in the plural number, including himself and those engaged with him in preaching the gospel. Nicodemus had said (Joh 3:2), "We know that thou art," &c., including himself and those with whom he acted. Jesus in reply said, We, who are engaged in spreading the new doctrines about which you have come to inquire, speak what we know. We do not deliver doctrines which we do not practically understand. This is a positive affirmation of Jesus, which he had a right to make about his new doctrine. He knew its truth, and those who came into his kingdom knew it also. We learn here, 1st. That the Pharisees taught doctrines which they did not practically understand.

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