(story told in John 3:1-21; 7:50-52; 19:39-40)
Nicodemus was a respected Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council. He was a man of knowledge, influence, and religious devotion—but he was also curious about Jesus. The miracles and teachings of Jesus stirred something in his heart, so one night, Nicodemus went to meet Him in secret. He didn’t want others to see, but he couldn’t ignore the questions burning in his mind.
During their quiet conversation, Jesus told Nicodemus that to see the kingdom of God, a person must be “born again.” Confused, Nicodemus asked how anyone could be born a second time. Jesus explained that this new birth wasn’t physical—it was spiritual, made possible by the Holy Spirit. He told Nicodemus that God’s love for the world was so great that He would send His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him would have eternal life. These words became some of the most well-known in Scripture: “For God so loved the world…”
At first, Nicodemus didn’t fully understand. But as time went on, his heart began to change. When other religious leaders tried to condemn Jesus without a fair hearing, Nicodemus spoke up, reminding them that the law required justice. His quiet courage showed that faith was growing within him.
After Jesus’ death, Nicodemus came forward again—this time openly. Along with Joseph of Arimathea, he helped prepare Jesus’ body for burial, bringing spices and wrapping Him in linen.
Nicodemus’s story shows the journey of a sincere seeker. He began with questions in the dark but ended with faith in the light. His life reminds us that when we come to Jesus honestly, He meets us with truth, grace, and the promise of new life.