
Tenth Church Sermons The Mystery of the New Birth
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Mar 30, 2014 A preacher unpacks John 3 and Nicodemus, exploring why spiritual rebirth is necessary and how the Holy Spirit works. Meanings of "born of water and spirit," baptism, and the wind metaphor get clear attention. Stories of historical and modern conversions illustrate transformation. Practical steps for encouraging new life and praying for others round out the conversation.
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Wealthy Betty's Lasting Spiritual Awakening
- Ken Shigematsu recounts Pastor's visit to wealthy Betty who, facing terminal cancer, asked, How is it with my soul, and then embraced faith before dying.
- Betty transformed from worldly success to glowing peace after hearing the gospel and trusting Christ's death for forgiveness.
Newness Over Niceness
- Jesus tells Nicodemus no one can see God's kingdom unless they are born from above, reframing spiritual change as becoming a new person rather than just morally improved.
- Ken cites C.S. Lewis: God's aim is not nice people but new people, illustrating radical transformation.
Water and Spirit As Cleansing And Breath
- Jesus links being born of water and Spirit: water symbolizes cleansing and baptismal renewal and Spirit symbolizes God's breath that animates life.
- Ken connects Ezekiel 36–37 to baptism and Communion as ordinary elements made life-giving by God's presence.







