John Calvin Commentary John 3:9

"Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?" — John 3:9 (ASV)

How can these things be? We see what the chief obstacle is in Nicodemus's way.

Everything he hears appears monstrous because he does not understand how it happens. Thus, no obstacle is greater for us than our own pride. This pride means we always wish to be wiser than is appropriate. Therefore, with diabolical pride, we reject everything that is not explained to our reason; as if it were right to limit God's infinite power to our limited capacity.

We are indeed permitted, to a certain extent, to inquire into the way and reason of God's works, provided that we do so with seriousness and reverence. But Nicodemus rejects it as a fable because he does not believe it to be possible.

We will discuss this subject more fully in the Sixth Chapter.