THE SON OF MAN LIFTED UP

John 3:09-15

Key Verse 14-15

“And 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.”

1. Vs 9-10. For context, look at verses 5-8. What were “these things” that Nicodemus was not understanding? What does Jesus’ question show about the quality of Nicodemus as a teacher?
2. Vs. 11. Who is the ‘we’ Jesus is talking about in this verse? What is it they have seen and what do they do? Why do you think their testimony is not received?
3. Vs. 12. What exactly were the ‘earthly things’ that Jesus told Nicodemus? Jesus speaks of ‘heavenly things’, what does this show about ‘earth’ and ‘heaven’?
4. Vs. 13. Why do you think Jesus now speaks of ‘ascending’ and ‘descending’ in relation to ‘earthly things’ and ‘heavenly things’? Who is it that has ascended and descended from heaven? Why is that important to know?
5. Vs. 14-15. Explain the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness. (Num. 21:4-9) What do you think is meant by ‘lifted up’? What is the connection between the serpent and the Son of Man being lifted up? How does this relate to ascending into heaven?