Additional Scriptures 

Genesis 12:1–4a; Psalm 121; Romans 4:1–5, 13–17 

Preparation 

Have paper and something to write with for each person. Distribute as people enter the worship space or wait until it is needed during the Scripture Reflection. 

Worship Setting 

This is the second Sunday in Lent (Humility). Use five candles as part of each week’s Lenten remembrance. They represent characteristics of honesty, humility, hopefulness, healing, and wholeness. Each Sunday add objects to the worship setting that reflect each weekly focus. Today might relate to baptism and Spirit: photos of baptisms, pitcher of water, or fan (for wind of Spirit) for the characteristic of humility. Begin this service with the first candle (from last week) already lit. 

Prelude 

Community Share, Care, and Prayer  

We Reflect 

Lenten Welcome 

Lent is about divine grace. It is a time to reflect on our discipleship and prepare for Easter. It is based on the example of Christ’s forty days in the desert preparing for ministry. Lent is a time to honestly examine who we are, recognize who we are called to become, and receive divine grace for the journey in between. Lent is an invitation to fast or replace a behavior with time connecting with God. 

Announce that there will be opportunities for testimonies later in the service if applicable. 

Lenten Lament 

Read in unison. Print or project this scripture for all to see. 

My soul grieves because of my sin. 

I am surrounded by temptations which so easily influence me. 

When I desire to rejoice, my heart groans because of my sins; 

nevertheless, I know in whom I have trust. 

—2 Nephi 3:32–34, adapted 

[Optional] Light the second Lenten candle, leaving three candles unlit. 

Lenten Reading 

Last week’s candle reminds us to be honest with ourselves and others. This week’s candle represents humility. As disciples we humbly look to Christ’s example, yet we are imperfect and often fall short of who Christ asks us to become. We practice humility when we accept our shortcomings without judgment or defense and look to God for help and guidance. Honestly admitting our mistakes is confession, and sincerely desiring to change for the better is repentance. Honesty and humility are needed for confession and repentance. Today we confess and repent. 

 We praise our loving Creator for the love and forgiveness extended to all. We open ourselves to fully receive both. 

 Opening Hymn  

“Humble Yourself”    sing several times  CCS 211  

OR “Amazing Grace” CCS 19 

Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. 

Choose the Scripture Reflection OR Dwelling in the Word, according to the option that best suits your group. 

Scripture Reflection 

Read these scriptures aloud. Project the words or use the scripture and tell the story in your own words. Pause after each question to allow time for reflection, then encourage small group discussion of the question. 

Reading: Genesis 12:1–4a 

Reflection Questions 

• When have you stepped out in faith as Abram?  

• What did you learn?  

• How can you apply this to the coming week? 

Reading: John 3:1–17 

Reflection Questions 

• When have you stepped out in faith as Nicodemus?  

• What did you learn?  

• How can you apply this to the coming week? 

OR Dwelling in the Word: Psalm 121 

Print in the bulletin or project the Psalm and questions. Read the passage aloud, then pause for people to reflect. After sufficient time, repeat this process for the second question. 

First Reading: What word, phrase, image, or thought stands out to you? 

Second Reading: What is God asking you to receive from this passage? 

 Hymn 

“Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” CCS 255 

OR “The Love of God” CCS 210 

We Trust 

Testimonies of Faith and Trust 

The testimonies should be based on being open to God’s kingdom, stepping out in faith, or the characteristic of humility. Vary the ages of those sharing and the focus of their testimony. 

OR Provide an open time for people to share a brief, personal testimony or story based on being open to God’s kingdom, stepping out in faith, or the characteristic of humility. Announce this opportunity at the beginning of the service to allow for preparation. 

OR Homily 

Based on John 3:1–17 

Ministry of Music or Community Hymn of Faith 

“We Are Pilgrims on a Journey” CCS 550 

OR “Jesus, Jesus, Ever Near Us” CCS 254 

 Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Invitation to Communion

Access the Inivation to Communion script

Blessings and Serving of the Bread and Wine

Disciples’ Generous Response 

Statement 

All Are Called, one of our Enduring Principles, states that “God graciously gives people gifts and opportunities to do good and to share in God’s purposes.” (Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th edition, page 29) 

How often do we think, “I can’t do that,” or “I will help with that later,” or, “Someone else will do or give—my offering is not important.” We are not fully receiving all of life as a gift from God when we diminish our gifts and opportunities. 

Blessing of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes 

Dear God, forgive us for believing your gifts to us are intended only for us. Forgive us for collecting your gifts and ignoring opportunities to share. Create in us a greater understanding of your peaceable kingdom. Show us how to challenge the world we live in by living a life of discipleship.  

You call each one of us. You call me. Thank you for your love and grace. Thank you for this opportunity to share today, and every opportunity throughout the week. Amen. 

Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes 

We Journey 

Prayer for Peace 

Light the peace candle 

Reading for Peace 

Read this paragraph once OR Read the paragraph three times: 

1. Read the entire paragraph. 

1. Read the paragraph again and ask people shout “Amen!” when they hear the word “peace.” 

1. Read again and have them shout “Hallelujah!” at the words “just” or “justice.” 

God wants shalom. Shalom exists when all creation experiences justice, wholeness, and peace. God’s shalom is revealed in Christ’s peace. When we just take time to know someone else, we help create peace, justice draws near, and the world begins to change. You see, God’s kingdom isn’t just you, or just me—it is us, everyone. I have peace when you have peace. God’s love connects us. Christ’s presence invites shalom. May we commit to nurture justice and peace every day. 

Prayer  

God of Peace, 

You bring light to our darkness  

and hope to our determined core. 

Embolden us as we yearn for peace. 

Direct us as we watch for peace. 

Reassure us as we work for peace. 

You are the light! 

You are our peace! 

Amen. 

Community Statement 

Read in unison. Print or project the words for all to see. 

This week we commit to listen and humbly follow your promptings. Like Nicodemus with Jesus, we will exercise our faith and put our trust in you. Help us recognize those opportunities. Grant us strength to see clearly where we are, and courage to step where you beckon us to go. We commit to nurture your peace in our lives and uphold the sacredness of our journey. 

Moment of Silence 

Closing Hymn 

“Lift Every Voice and Sing” CCS 555 

OR “How Many Times We Start Again” CCS 560 

Benediction 

Community Response

“Humble Yourself” CCS 211 

 Postlude

Gathering

Welcome

Lent is a time for personal and community spiritual renewal. The Lenten season is the 40 days (excluding Sundays) between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday. As we journey with Jesus we are called into the wilderness to prepare for something new. In this wilderness we confront the most painful parts of ourselves, face our weaknesses, and await the transforming power of grace, hope, and resurrection.

Prayer for Peace

Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.
Light the peace candle.

During the Lenten season we will use a verse from CCS 221, “Spirit of Christ, Remember Me,” as our prayer for peace.

I will read aloud verse 2. Then I will read it phrase by phrase, and you will repeat each phrase after me. I will close with Amen.

Read verse 2 aloud from CCS 221, “Spirit of Christ, Remember Me.”

Say: “Repeat after me.”

Read the first phrase of CCS 221, verse 2, aloud. Wait for congregation to repeat.

Proceed in that way through the entire verse.

Close with, “Amen.”

Spiritual Practice

Practice of Silence

Practicing silence may be difficult at first. The mind may run wild. Allow yourself grace in this practice. We will begin when I ring the chime. We will be silent for five minutes. I will ring the chime again at the conclusion of our time of silence.

Remember to breathe deeply. Focusing on each breath can help quiet the mind. Become aware of your surroundings; notice how the air feels on your skin; trust that you are in the presence of the holy—fully surrounding and embracing you. Allow your inner conversations to stop for a while, being fully present with the One who is fully present with you.

Ring a chime to begin.

Wait five minutes.

Ring the chime to conclude the period of silence.

Ask: How does it feel to be present with God in silence?

—Adapted from a Guide for Lent

Sharing Around the Table

John 3:1–17 NRSVue

Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus^[a] by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with that person.” Jesus answered him, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?

“Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen, yet you^[f] do not receive our testimony. If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.  And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

“Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Scholars believe Jesus was in Jerusalem for the meeting with Nicodemus as told in John 3:1–17. This passage is known for two foci. The first is on the words in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”

But it also is known for the story of Nicodemus coming to see Jesus in the dark. Later, after Jesus’ death, he comes with spices and oils to help carry the body to the tomb (John 19:39–42).

Although today’s passage ends at verse 17, if we include verses 18–21, we see a recurrence of the theme of light and darkness. That theme seems clearly connected to Nicodemus coming to Jesus at night and his search for light. Our story follows a familiar pattern found in John. The first part deals with a sign or signs, followed by a discussion, then a closing with Jesus teaching about the topic.

Nicodemus, a Pharisee, is a leader among the Jews. He is a teacher, interpreter, guardian of the law, and member of the ruling council. He comes to talk to Jesus, ask him questions, and see for himself this person who is performing all these signs.

Jesus’ reference to being born from above is a way of saying God is the one who gives us life. God is laboring to bring us to new life. According to Jesus, one needs to be born from above of water and Spirit. The Spirit plays an important role in John, who refers to the Spirit as the Comforter or Advocate who will stay with us when we carry on Jesus’ work.

When Jesus again speaks to Nicodemus, the word you becomes plural. Jesus addresses everyone with the words in verses 17 and 18. Jesus is stating how much God loves each of us. Jesus is the light sent into the world. It is up to us to respond to this love and light and live in it instead of in darkness.

Questions

1. What joy in your life comes from understanding the message and ministry of Jesus Christ?
2. How do you identify with Nicodemus? Is God disrupting your life, calling you to understand things in a new way?

Sending

Generosity Statement

Faithful disciples respond to an increasing awareness of the abundant generosity of God by sharing according to the desires of their hearts; not by commandment or constraint.

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:9

The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response.

The offering prayer for Lent is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response:

Ever-present God, Forgive us when we are less than loving, less than hope-filled, less than you have created us to be. Your mercy and grace are always with us. May we find strength in your presence, and may we respond to your love with generous spirits. Amen.

Invitation to Next Meeting

Closing Hymn

CCS 207 “Creator of Sunrises” 

Closing Prayer

Optional Additions Depending on Group

Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper

Communion Scripture

Choose one scripture to read from this selection: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39.

Communion Statement

All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ.

During this Lenten season let us share in Communion as an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community. In preparation let’s sing from Community of Christ Sings 526, “Is There One Who Feels Unworthy?”

Blessing and serving bread and wine.

Thoughts for Children

Materials: globe or world map

Say: Our scripture today tells us that God so loved the world. Here is a map (or globe) that shows the whole world. Point to where you are.

Say: Here we are in this part of the world. What does God love about our part of the world (people, animals, mountains, flowers)? Encourage the children to respond.

Point to another part of the world and ask: Does God love this part of the world, too? Yes! God loves all of the world. What do you think God loves in this part of the world (name some people, places, or animals from that area)?

Repeat with one more area of the world, identifying people, places, or animals and assuring the children that God loves all the world.

Say: Let’s pick a place in the world and offer a prayer of blessing for the people, the plants, and the animals that live and grow there. Help the children choose an area of the world.

Ask them to place their hands on that part of the map (or globe) as you pray.

Lord, please bless the people of ______________.

Bless the plants that grow here and the animals that live here.

Help us remember that you love all the people of the world and all of your creation.

Amen.

When you go home you can use a globe or world map to learn. Close your eyes and then point to a place to learn about and to pray for the people, animals, and environment there. You can learn more about the place you choose by researching it online or at a library.

You can do this each week to learn about a new place, new people, new animals, and plants. Then keep all of them in your heart and pray for them each day.

Exploring the Scripture

Scholars believe Jesus was in Jerusalem for the meeting with Nicodemus told in John 3:1–17. This passage is known for its two separate focuses. The first is on the words found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”

But it is also known for the story of Nicodemus coming to see Jesus in the dark. Later, after Jesus’ death, he comes with spices and oils to help carry the body to the tomb (John 19:39–42).

Although today’s passage ends at verse 17, if we include verses 18–21, we see a recurrence of the theme of light and darkness. That theme seems clearly connected to Nicodemus coming to Jesus at night and his search for light. Our story follows a familiar pattern in John, where the first part deals with a sign or signs, is followed by a discussion, and closes with Jesus teaching about the topic.

Nicodemus, a Pharisee, is a leader among the Jews. He is a teacher, interpreter, guardian of the law, and member of the ruling council. He comes to talk to Jesus, ask him questions, and see for himself this person is who is performing all these signs.

Jesus’ reference to being born from above in John 3:7, is saying God is the one who gives us life. It is God who gives us the invitation to belong to the kingdom of God. God is laboring to bring us to new life. According to Jesus one needs to be born from above of water and Spirit. “From above” can also be translated as anew, but Nicodemus hears the words and still does not understand Jesus. Jesus’ use of the word for water may allude to what follows in the next chapter where Jesus refers to “living water.” We are familiar with the important role the Spirit plays in John who refers to it as the Comforter or Advocate who will stay with us when we carry on Jesus’ work.

Jesus challenges Nicodemus when he questions how he cannot understand this as a teacher. In verse 11 Jesus again speaks to Nicodemus, but this time when the word you is used it becomes plural and he addresses everyone. So the words in verses 17 and 18 are also directed to all, stating how much God loves each one of us. Jesus is the light that was sent into the world. It is up to us to respond to this love and light and live in it instead of in darkness.

Central Ideas

1. God invites us to be participants in the kingdom of God by being disciples of Jesus Christ.
2. When we seek to know the life of Jesus, we are seeking the light.
3. When we believe in Christ, new life awaits us, a new life that is God’s gift to us.

Questions for the Speaker

1. When have you sought to discover and understand God’s will through study of scripture, tradition, continuing revelation, knowledge and reason, personal and community experience, and common consent?
2. What joy in your life comes from believing in Christ?
3. Do you identify with Nicodemus? Is God disrupting your life and pulling you into more light?

Focus Scripture Passage

John 3:1–17 

Lesson Focus

God calls disciples out of darkness into new light and life in Christ. 

Objectives 

The learners will… 

• continue the Lenten journey with Dwelling in the Word. 
• discuss the focus scripture passage. 
• explore the importance of various lenses in understanding God’s will. 

Supplies 

• Bible  
• Response Sheet for each student (end of lesson) 
• Pens or pencils 
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS) 

Notes to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 3:1–17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Matthew), p. 47, available through Herald House. 

Gather

Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)

Today is the second Sunday in Lent. We fast for 40 days remembering Christ’s own fast in the wilderness. Our journey through Lent gives us a chance to reorder priorities and to make space in our lives for being in the presence of God with greater awareness and intentionality. As we practice self-examination and conversion through prayer, fasting, self-denial, and generosity, we open ourselves to God’s creative purposes in our lives and in our world. 

We will begin with the practice of Dwelling in the Word using Isaiah 58:6–12. Read the passage (see Response Sheet) adapted from the NRSV and The Message. Spend a few moments in silent reflection with the following questions, record your thoughts on the Response Sheet or share in groups of two or three. 

• What is the fast you choose? What new awareness is emerging about your discipleship as you consider this text? 

Read or sing “Lead Me, Lord” CCS 450. 

Engage

Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)

Today’s focus passage from John’s Gospel contains one of the most familiar verses of scripture, John 3:16. The Enduring Principle Continuing Revelation challenges us to hear the familiar words with new understanding. 

Read John 3:1–17 and discuss the following. 

Nicodemus is a respected Jewish religious leader whose faith is based on the Law. He “believes” in Jesus because of what he has seen. The symbolism of darkness represents his hesitancy, and his longing for greater truth and light. The exchange between Jesus and Nicodemus represents Nicodemus’ limited and literal understanding of what Jesus teaches about new life in God. John’s audience, and disciples today, hear these words from a post-Easter perspective. In this passage, John’s author switches from a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus to Jesus speaking as “we” (3:11) representing the Christian community. The message in this passage is not directed to one person or to a particular group of believers. It is directed to all. 

• In what ways do you relate to Nicodemus in this passage? 
• How do you hear the familiar verses of 3:16–17 in a new way as you consider the whole passage? 
• How would you describe being “born from above” to a seeker or new disciple? 
• How have you experienced new life in Christ? 

Respond

Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)

Just as Nicodemus comes to Jesus seeking greater understanding, disciples today are challenged to continually seek greater understanding of God’s will. A holistic approach to discovering God’s will includes six lenses: scripture study, tradition, continuing revelation, knowledge and reason, personal and community experience, and common consent. (Find more information at CofChrist.org) 

• Share in groups of two or three, or as a larger group, how you have experienced a greater understanding of God’s will through one or more of the six lenses. 
• How are these lenses experienced in your congregation as you develop disciples to serve? 

Continuing Revelation is described as follows: 

Continuing Revelation 

• • Scripture is an inspired and indispensable witness of human response to God’s revelation of divine nature. 
  • God graciously reveals divine will today as in the past. 
  • The Holy Spirit inspires and provides witness to divine truth. 
  • In humility, individually and in community, we prayerfully listen to understand God’s will for our lives, the church, and creation more completely. 

—Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 29

Discuss: 

• How would you describe continuing revelation to a seeker or new disciple? 
• The imagery of moving from darkness to new life in John’s passage relates to life as a disciple and life in community. What movement from darkness to new life is needed in your congregation? 
• What movement from darkness to new life have you experienced in community? 

Send

Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)

Continuing Revelation means more than having an open canon of scripture. Living this Enduring Principle requires awareness of how God is being revealed through disciples and through Christ-like communities. 

Use the following questions as a practice of Examen (learn more about this practice at CofChrist.org) in the coming week(s). 

• How did my life reveal God’s will today? 
• How am I being called from darkness to new life in Christ? 
• Who is waiting in darkness for an invitation to the peace of Jesus Christ? How will I respond? 

Bless

Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)

Read the refrain of “Come and Bring Light” CCS 287 as a prayer of blessing. 

Come and bring light to a people in darkness. 
Come, set us free from the chains we have made. 
We are your people, the flock that you tend. 
Lord, open our eyes once again. 

—“Come and Bring Light” by Kevin Keil, ©1998 Lorenz Publishing Company 

Response Sheet—Second Sunday in Lent 

Dwelling in the Word: Isaiah 58:6–12 (adapted from NRSV and The Message) 

Reader 1: Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? 

Reader 2: Is it not sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families? 

Reader 1: Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly; 

Reader 2: Your righteousness will pave your way. The God of glory will secure your passage. 

Reader 1: Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and he will say Here I am. 

Reader 2: If you get rid of unfair practices, quit blaming victims, quit gossiping about other people’s sins,  

                   If you are generous with the hungry and start giving yourselves to the down-and-out,  

                   Your lives will begin to glow in the darkness, your shadowed lives will be bathed in sunlight. 

Reader 1: The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in the emptiest of places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail. 

Reader 2: You will use the old rubble of past lives to build anew, rebuild the foundations from out of your past. 

                   You will be known as those who can repair, restore, rebuild, and renovate, and make communities thrive. 

• What is the fast you choose?
• What new awareness is emerging about your discipleship as you consider this text? 

Focus Scripture Passage

John 3:1–17 

Lesson Focus

Being open to new ideas helps disciples grow in the likeness of Christ. 

Objectives 

The learners will… 

• explore how searching is part of the journey to understanding. 
• discover how our fears hold us back. 
• recognize God’s love outshines our fear. 
• identify various ways of becoming a disciple. 

Supplies 

• Bible 
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS) 
• Index cards 
• Small mirrors 
• Chart paper 

Notes to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 3:1–17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Matthew), p. 47, available through Herald House. 

Gather

Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)

Ask: Have you ever wanted to know the answer to a question or how something works, but were afraid to ask? Describe the situation and how you felt. Did someone help you find the answer? Explain. 

After sharing, ask a volunteer to read John 3:1–17. 

Nicodemus was a prominent leader in Jewish community, a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish ruling religious council). His education taught him that the only way to enter heaven was to be obedient to Jewish laws—there were “only” 613! He wanted to protect his reputation with his peers, yet he recognized in Jesus the presence of God. He was intrigued with Jesus’s teaching of “being reborn” as the way to enter heaven. At night, under the cover of darkness, he made a secret visit to find answers to the questions that were bothering him. 

• What respect did Nicodemus show Jesus? (Rabbi was a term used to address a respected teacher.) 
• What was Nicodemus’ question? 
• What was Nicodemus’ understanding of the phrase “born again”? 
• How did Jesus respond? 

Engage

Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)

Guided by Questions 

Jesus used questions to guide Nicodemus in the discovery of the answers he was seeking. 

• What do you think Jesus wanted Nicodemus to understand when he asked, “Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?” (v. 10) 
• And this question, “If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things?” (v. 12) 
• Was this a challenge to Nicodemus’ reputation, or encouraging him to think in new directions? 

Jesus provided the answers for Nicodemus and for us. Jesus explained why he came to live among the people of Earth. Reread John 3:16–17. In the original Greek, agape was the word used for the highest form of love described in this scripture. Jesus was God’s presence in human life—God’s plan for salvation. 

Going Deeper

Nicodemus may have found some of the answers he was looking for that night, but we don’t know exactly. His name appears later in the book of John. Read John 7:50–51 and 19:39–40 to find more about this seeker who may have become a disciple. 

Respond

Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)

Being Nicodemus, Being Jesus 

Nicodemus sought Jesus during the night. Whom was he avoiding? Even Nicodemus dealt with peer pressure. At all ages, whoever the peers are, there is pressure to conform to the group, to be like everyone else. Even Jesus had to deal with peer pressure from the people around him and the religious leaders. Jesus continued to share his knowledge of God with people whose hearts were open to hear his message. He drew people who followed him as disciples and then shared their understandings of what Jesus taught with others. 

• How did Jesus respond to the pressure of religious leaders? 
• With whom did Jesus share? 

Read the section below on the Basic Belief “Discipleship” from Sharing in Community of Christ, 4th Edition, p. 37. 

Discipleship 

Being a Christian is more than holding a list of right ideas; it is about radical obedience to Jesus in every part of life. God’s boundless love sets us free for lives of responsible stewardship in which we generously offer our lives in service in God’s reign. Discipleship is both an inward and outward journey. Jesus calls us to follow him and to invite others to experience the transforming power of his grace. 

Discuss: 

• How does a disciple respond? 
• The Mission Initiative Develop Disciples to Serve says we should equip ourselves for Christ’s mission. What does that mean, and what does it challenge you to do? 
• How can you share your beliefs with those who have open hearts and minds, waiting to hear of God’s love for them? 

Darkness to Light 

Nicodemus traveled at night to see Jesus. He was looking for answers that would enlighten him. Many biblical scholars identify the theme of darkness and light found in this scripture passage. Other scriptures describe Jesus Christ as the Light; a life-giving energy; a light of truth that defies darkness; and the true, living light for the world. We can choose to respond to the Light and reflect its brightness. 

Consider the reflection of a face in the mirror. Without light, there is no reflection. With dim light, the image in the mirror is not clear. With the full light of the room or the sun, the image in the mirror reveals all there is to see on the surface and hints about the potential behind the image. Give each group member a small mirror. Darken the room; then slowly increase the light. 

• What can be seen in the dark? 
• How does the image in the mirror change when more light becomes available? 
• What potential might be found in the image in the mirror with even greater light? 
• How is Jesus like the light? 
• How is the Light of Jesus reflected in the mirror? 

Sing “Siyahamb’ Ekukhanyen’ Kwenkhos’ (We Are Marching in the Light of God)” CCS 95. 

Send

Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)

Nicodemus sought out Jesus for answers to his questions. On an index card ask each group member to list several peers or others they know who may be asking questions like Nicodemus did. Beside each name identify an opportunity or event to meet that person and share God’s message that Jesus shared. Challenge group members to meet with one of those persons in the coming week. 

Bless

Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)

Read John 3:16 as a group from Bibles or written on chart paper. Challenge the group to commit the verse to memory. Provide a sheet of paper for each group member. Title the paper “John 3:16” and have group members write words or draw pictures to express their thoughts about the verse. Share what they recorded on their papers. Together recite John 3:16 again. 

Focus Scripture Passage

John 3:1–17 

Lesson Focus

Disciples are reborn in both water and Spirit.  

Objectives 

The learners will… 

• discuss what it means to be reborn in water and Spirit. 
• explore ways to illustrate characteristics of the Holy Spirit. 
• engage in the spiritual practice, Let the Spirit Breathe. 
• share experiences from their Lenten calendar, if applicable. 

Supplies 

• Bible  
• Community of Christ Sings (CCS) 
• Fan (electric or hand-powered), paper streamers (optional), small objects that move easily when blown by air (pieces of paper, feathers, small pieces of cloth, or others as available) 
• Optional: sticks or dowel rods around 12 in/30 cm long, paper streamers 12 in/30 cm long, push pins or scotch tape 
• Pens or pencils 

Notes to Teacher

In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for John 3:1–17 in Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: New Testament, p. 47, available through Herald House. 

Gather

Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)

Greet children as they enter and have them form a circle. If applicable to your Lenten journey, ask children to share from their Lenten calendars how they used their gifts with others this week. 

Invite the Holy Spirit to be present in your class by singing together “Come, Holy Spirit, Come” CCS 154. 

Ask children to share about a time when someone told them how to do something, but they did not understand how to do it. 

• How did they feel? 
• What did they do to figure it out? 

Say: Today’s scripture passage is about a man named Nicodemus who was confused about what Jesus said he should do. Listen carefully for what Jesus told him. 

Engage

Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)

Read together John 3:1–17. Ask the class: 

• What did Nicodemus want to know? (how to be “reborn”) 
• Did Jesus mean that Nicodemus had to become a baby again? (no) 
• What did Jesus say Nicodemus needed to do? (be born “of water and Spirit”) 
• What do you think Jesus meant by that? 

Say: In Community of Christ, people commit to being disciples of Jesus through baptism and confirmation. Baptism happens in the water. It represents leaving behind your old life and being “reborn” into a new way of living—the way of Jesus. Confirmation happens after baptism and is a commitment to the community. Elders in the church lay their hands on the head of the person and ask God to bless the new disciple with the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is a way to be “reborn” of the Holy Spirit. 

Note to Teacher

This would be an ideal time to go deeper with your class about the sacraments of baptism and confirmation, especially if there are children in your class around the age of eight. An excellent resource is Of Water and Spirit, ISBN 9780830915699, available through Herald House. This pre-baptismal resource is designed to help children learn more about the sacraments of baptism and confirmation and Community of Christ beliefs. If there are children in your class ready to explore baptism, talk with your pastor or Christian education director about setting up a class. 

Ask: Have you ever seen the Holy Spirit? In today’s scripture passage, Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as an invisible wind that you cannot see, but whose effects you can see. 

Draw the students’ attention to the fan (electric or handheld). Use the fan to blow small objects around on the table (see supply list for suggestions). If using an electric fan, place streamers on the outside cage of the fan. Observe how the wind moves them. 

Ask: 

• What is causing things to blow? (the fan) 
• Can anyone see the air or wind created by the fan? (no) God’s Spirit is much the same. We see the actions of the air, and we see the actions of the Holy Spirit in the deeds of others as the Holy Spirit works in and through disciples helping them respond to situations of need.  
• What does it look like when people respond to the Holy Spirit? How do they act? (Compassion and service are often results of the Holy Spirit’s work in the disciple’s life.) Share other examples with the class. 
• What do you do to show others the Holy Spirit? Take a few minutes to role play what that might look like. 

Allow children to experiment with blowing the objects around using only their own air. Clean up as needed.

Respond

Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)

Read together Doctrine and Covenants 162:2e (below). 

Again you are reminded that this community was divinely called into being. The spirit of the Restoration is not locked in one moment of time, but is instead the call to every generation to witness to essential truths in its own language and form. Let the Spirit breathe. 

• What does it mean to “let the Spirit breathe”? 
• What do you have to do to hear someone breathe? (be quiet, listen carefully, give them room) 

It is the same with the Holy Spirit. We need to take time to listen quietly. This happens when we pray and meditate. 

The Season of Lent is a great time to explore ways to connect with God. These are called spiritual practices. Today’s practice is called Let the Spirit Breathe. 

Invite the students to lie down in a comfortable position. You may want to dim the lights. Take them through a breathing exercise. Have them slowly breathe in, focusing on watching their stomachs rise. Then have them slowly breathe out, blowing the air quietly out through their lips. Repeat the breathing in and out several times. Remind the class they can do this exercise any time they want to feel close to God and the Holy Spirit. 

While still lying down, ask the children to quietly share aloud whatever thoughts, ideas, or feelings they had about the Holy Spirit while they were breathing. 

Optional Activity

Have the class create Spirit streamers. Pass out a stick (dowel rod) to each child. Have them cut or tear pieces of streamers and tape or pin one end of each streamer to the top of their sticks. Then have children shake or move the stick to represent the movement of the Holy Spirit. 

Send

Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)

If applicable, ask students to take out their Lenten calendars. (For more details, see lesson for Matthew 4:1–11 from the First Sunday in Lent.) Have a few extras available. Discuss ways the children can show the Holy Spirit to others throughout this week. Have them share ideas to add to their calendars. 

Bless

Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)

Form a circle and sing together “Spirit of the Living God” CCS 567 two times. Hold hands, crouch low to the ground, and slowly rise together as you chant “Let the Spirit breathe.” End with arms in the air. 

Note

Numerous ideas taken and adapted from Power and Light Kids’ Edition: January, February, March, April 2005 © Community of Christ.