by Rev. Grant Armstrong Sunday, April 11, 2021 John 3:1-20 Donate Online - Secure, web-based giving for St. John's UMC

SERMON NOTES I. The kingdom of God doesn’t advance unless people experience new birth through Jesus Christ. II. Religion and reconciliation are not synonymous. III. To endure, the church has to live in and reflect the light of Christ.   FOR DISCUSSION AND REFLECTION - Besides Jesus, if you could go visit with someone some evening just to ask some burning questions, who would you go to? Why? - What do you think of when you hear the term "born again?" How does Jesus use the term in today's passage? - Is it possible for people to practice religion without having faith? Is it possible to have faith without practicing religion? Describe examples of each. - Why are churches focused on things other than discipleship likely to expire? - On your own chart, where would you place yourself in the quadrants of "cultural club" vs. "Christian discipleship" and "Invitation" vs. "Wishin' and Hopin'?" Why? - What is God saying to you through today's scripture?