John 3:1-2 1And there was a man of the Pharisees, a name to him of Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to him by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.”
John next illustrates the type of faith required in believing in Jesus. Beginning in chapter 3, Jesus has conversations with various people about the topic of believing in him. He talks with people from many different walks of life. Readers are introduced to a new character in the story named Nicodemus, who serves as an example of the type of people mentioned in 2:23-25. This connection is clear with the opening of verse 1 (de) and Nicodemus’ question about signs.
John indicates that Nicodemus was one of the Jewish leaders. As a Pharisee, he was a strict observer of the law. The sect of Pharisees were sincere religious people who tried to please God by living strictly according to their interpretation of the law. Jesus criticized them for misplacing their religious zeal on outward acts of piety rather than inward devotion. Nicodemus was also a member of the Sanhedrin, the ruling council of Jews. This indicates he was a person of authority, influence, and high respect in the Jewish community.
It is curious why Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, but possibly to avoid recognition from other Jewish leaders. Night is often when secrets are discussed so others do not find out. He addressed Jesus with the sign of respect towards a teacher. His statement indicates that he saw God at work in Jesus. Nicodemus was obviously a careful observer and orthodox Jew who believed that only God could do the things Jesus had done. John does not describe any specific miracles Jesus did in Jerusalem on this trip, but Nicodemus had either witnessed or heard of great signs Jesus had done. Since God was clearly working through Jesus, Jesus could be a source of information and revelation for Nicodemus. Nicodemus had not made the important connection yet between the signs and Jesus as the divine Son of God. He was on the journey and had questions that he hoped Jesus could answer.
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