The Pathway of Heaven
Sermon by Pastor Brent Snook / October 12, 2025
Series: Heaven
Main text: John 3:1–16
I. The Enquirer Regarding Heaven
A. – Most Impressive
– Pharisee: Guardian of the law.
– Member of the Sanhedrin: Ruling council of 71 elders.
– Israel’s Teacher: Respected, rich, and religious.
B. – Impacted by Jesus’ miracles and words.
– Wonders if Jesus is the Messiah.
C. – Came by night seeking truth (John 3:2).
– Searching beyond religion for real relationship with God.
II. The Explanation Regarding Heaven
A. Need for New Birth Informed
– Religion and morality cannot save; one must be born again.
– Salvation is spiritual, not physical (John 3:3).
B. Need for New Birth Illustrated
1. Different – Physical vs. Spiritual (vv.6–7).
2. Different – The Spirit moves unseen yet powerfully (v.8).
3. Different – The serpent lifted up (Num. 21:8–9; John 3:14–16).
→ Salvation comes by faith in the crucified Christ.
III. The Effect Regarding Heaven
Nicodemus publicly identified with Jesus at His burial.
Calvary changed his life—no longer a secret disciple.
True salvation leads to boldness and transformation.
Conclusion
God’s grace reaches both the moral and the broken.
Every soul must choose: Will you be born again and follow Christ?
John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world…”