GRADE 9 CRE THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF JESUS CHRIST – NICODEMUS' ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS CHRIST Notes

CRE: The Life & Ministry of Jesus Christ

Subtopic: Nicodemus' Encounter with Jesus Christ

Who was Nicodemus?

• A Pharisee and a teacher of the Jewish law (a respected religious leader).
• Member of the Jewish ruling council (the Sanhedrin) — he knew the scriptures well.
• He came to Jesus at night — possibly because he was curious, afraid of others, or wanted a private conversation.

What happened during their meeting?

1. Nicodemus greets Jesus and calls him a teacher sent by God.
2. Jesus tells him: "No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again" (John 3:3).
3. Nicodemus is confused and asks how an adult can be born again — literal vs spiritual birth.
4. Jesus explains being "born of water and the Spirit," meaning a spiritual change, not a physical rebirth.
5. Jesus uses the example of Moses lifting up the snake (Numbers story) and points to himself being "lifted up" (a hint to his death and salvation).
6. Jesus gives the famous summary: "For God so loved the world..." (John 3:16) — belief in Jesus brings eternal life.

Important teachings and meanings

• Born again = spiritual new start: A change in heart and life when someone trusts Jesus. It means turning away from sin and following God.
• Born of water and the Spirit: Many Christians understand "water" as baptism and "Spirit" as God's life-changing presence. Together they show cleansing and renewal.
• Faith, not works, is central: Jesus emphasised belief in him as the way to eternal life, not only following rules.
• Light vs darkness: Jesus speaks about coming into the light (truth) vs hiding in darkness (fear, sin, hypocrisy).

What Nicodemus later did

Nicodemus is not just a one-time visitor. Later he defends Jesus a little in the council (John 7:50–52), and after Jesus' death he helps prepare Jesus' body for burial (John 19:39). This shows his faith grew over time.

Practical lessons for Kenyan youth (age 14)

• It's okay to ask questions: Like Nicodemus, ask honest questions about faith — at church, youth group (YCS), or with a trusted leader.
• Courage to seek truth: Nicodemus came at night — sometimes we explore faith quietly. Take time to learn and grow.
• Change takes time: Being "born again" can mean a real change in choices — friendships, school behaviour, and how you treat others.
• Leaders can learn: Even teachers and church leaders may need to accept new understanding; humility is important.
• Share the light: Jesus calls believers to live in the light. In school or village life, show love, honesty, and fairness.

Activities and discussion (Class / Youth group)

1. Role-play: One student plays Nicodemus, one plays Jesus. Practice the conversation and then discuss feelings and misunderstandings.
2. Group talk: What does “born again” mean to you? Share examples from daily life (school, home, church).
3. Memory verse challenge: Learn John 3:16. Repeat in groups and explain in simple Kenyan English or Swahili.
4. Personal reflection: Write one way you want to change this term to follow Jesus more closely (e.g., kindness, honesty, helping at home).

For the teacher/parent

Encourage open questions and safe sharing. Connect the story to local examples — e.g., how a student changed behaviour after joining a church youth group. Remind students that faith is a journey; like Nicodemus some grow slowly into confident faith.