That None Should Perish

June 8, 2026

Nicodemus was a prominent Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish ruling council) who secretly sought out Jesus to understand His teachings. Mentioned exclusively in the Gospel of John, he is famous for his nighttime visit to Jesus, where the concept of being “born again” was first introduced. [1, 2, 3]

His journey in the Bible unfolds across three key events:

1. The Nighttime Visit (John 3:1-21)

• The Meeting: Nicodemus visited Jesus under the cover of night, likely to avoid scrutiny from his fellow religious leaders, though he approached Jesus with deep respect. [1, 2]
• The Message: Jesus told him that a person “must be born again” (or born from above) to see the kingdom of God. [1, 2]
• The Revelation: During this profound conversation, Jesus explained the work of the Holy Spirit and famously spoke the words of John 3:16 about God’s love for the world. [1, 2]

2. Defending Jesus (John 7:45-51)

• As Jesus’ popularity grew, the other religious leaders plotted to arrest Him.
• Nicodemus spoke up and reminded the council that Jewish law requires a person to be heard and investigated before being judged.
• His defense caused the other Pharisees to question his own loyalties. [1, 2, 3, 4]

3. The Burial of Jesus (John 19:38-42)

• Following the crucifixion, Nicodemus stepped out of the shadows and openly identified himself with Jesus.
• He assisted Joseph of Arimathea in preparing Jesus’ body for the tomb.
• He brought an extravagant gift of about 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes, demonstrating his great wealth, devotion, and reverence for Jesus. [1, 2, 3]

Cultural and Historical Significance

• Cautious Seeker: Nicodemus exemplifies an honest, inquiring faith. He began as a cautious observer but grew into a brave follower who risked his elite status to care for Jesus in death. [1, 2, 3, 4]
• Historical Links: Many biblical historians and the Jewish Encyclopedia theorize that Nicodemus may be the same person as Nicodemus Ben-Gurion, a famously wealthy and respected figure mentioned in the Talmud. [1]
• Veneration: He is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions, and is the patron saint of undertakers and pallbearers.