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Two things are observable in this question of Nicodemus, How can a man be born when he is old?
1. His ignorance and weakness in propounding of such a question. So true is that of the apostle, The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God 1Co_2:14
What a gross conception had this learned man of the notion of regeneration! How ingnorant is nature of the workings of grace! Men of name and note, of great parts and profound learning, are very often much at a loss in spiritual matters.
Yet, 2. In this question of his, there is discovered a great deal of plainness and simplicity: he did not come, as usually the Pharisees did, with an ensnaring question in his mouth; but with a mind fairly disposed for information and conviction; with a pious desire to be instructed.
Whatever ignorance we labour under, it is safest and best to discover it to our spiritual guide, that we may attain the mercy of a saving knowledge; but how many had rather carry their ignorance to hell wwith them, than discover it to their minister!