Nicodemus
The Religious Seeker Who Found New Birth
Name Information
- Meaning: "Victory of the people" (Greek origin)
- Language of Origin: Greek
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Nicodemus was a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin who sought out Jesus by night. Though initially confused about spiritual rebirth, he later defended Jesus publicly and helped bury Him. Nicodemus’s journey illustrates how even the religious must be born again, and how God's grace patiently transforms seekers into followers.
⏰ 1st century AD
Roles
- Pharisee
- Sanhedrin Member
- Secret Disciple
Relationships
- Friend: Joseph of Arimathea
Story
Initially came at night, showing caution or fear.
Struggled to understand spiritual rebirth — thinking only in physical terms.
Later spoke up for Jesus during a debate in the Sanhedrin.
After the crucifixion, brought 75 pounds of burial spices and helped lay Jesus in the tomb — a bold public act.
Spiritual Significance
- Came to Jesus by night seeking truth about eternal life.
- Heard Jesus’ famous teaching: 'You must be born again.'
- Defended Jesus among the Pharisees when they tried to condemn Him prematurely.
- Helped bury Jesus with costly spices, honoring Him publicly.
Christ Connection
Jesus revealed to Nicodemus that salvation comes through the Spirit and faith in the Son.
Nicodemus’s life illustrates the transforming power of the Gospel.
His story shows the shift from legalism to grace, from curiosity to costly discipleship.
What We Can Learn
- Religious knowledge does not equal saving faith.
- God patiently works with honest seekers.
- True faith grows from quiet inquiry to public courage.
- Everyone must be born again — no one is beyond the need for grace.
Memory Verses
You must be born again.
— John 3:7How can these things be?
— John 3:9
Key Passages
- John 3:1–21
- John 7:45–52
- John 19:38–42
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