He saved us, not because of deeds done by us in righteousness, but in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5, R.S.V.  {CC 291.1}        Nicodemus held a high position of trust in the Jewish nation. He was highly educated, and possessed talents of no ordinary character, and he was an honored member of the national council. With others, he had been stirred by the teaching of Jesus. . . .  {CC 291.2}        He greatly desired an interview with Jesus, but shrank from seeking Him openly. . . . He waited until the city was hushed in slumber, and then sought Him. . . .  {CC 291.3}        "Rabbi," he said, "we know that thou art a teacher come from God." . . . His words were designed to express and to invite confidence; but they really expressed unbelief. He did not acknowledge Jesus to be the Mess ...