Introduction: Early in Jesus’ ministry, he was paid a visit by Nicodemus. Only his Greek name is given, which comes from two Greek words: “victory” and “people.” He was a Pharisee, and a member of the Sanhedrin (translated “council” in the Bible), a group of 71 men (70 priests, scribes and elders; and the high priest) who ruled the Jews, but still under the ultimate authority of the Roman empire. The word “Pharisee” means “separated,” and the Pharisees were the most traditional and orthodox branch of Judaism. They numbered about 6000 in Jesus’ time. They were very influential, but were condemned by Jesus for being hypocrites. They were extremely careful to keep the outward religious practices: prayers, tithing, sabbath keeping, and so on. But they were full of lust and greed and pride on the inside. Jesus called them “whitewashed tombs,” pretty on the outside, but full of dead men’s bones. Nicodemus turned out to be one of the good Pharisees (incidentally, Paul the Apostle was a Pharisee before his conversion), and this morning I would like to point out three good qualities in Nicodemus:

I. Nicodemus was determined to investigate Jesus. He came at night, because he had a lot to lose, and was not yet sure about Jesus’ true identity. He knew He was a prophet, but he wanted to know if Jesus was the Messiah. What are we risking to be identified with Jesus? How diligently are we seeking Him out, trying to learn more?

II. Nicodemus was willing to humbly learn from Jesus. He spoke with respect. He asked questions. When Jesus gave him a difficult doctrine, he wasn’t offended, but he stuck with Jesus and asked more questions. He did not boast about his own high position on the Sanhedrin. Are we willing to humble ourselves under the Word of God? Are we willing to accept God’s judgments and valuations and directions about how to live, in spite of our preconceptions, or society’s contrary stance and dissapproval of us?

III. Nicodemus followed through, and became a disciple of Jesus. We read about him later at the end of John’s gospel, as assisting in Jesus’ burial (John 19:38-40). He eventually came out in the open, and identified himself with Jesus. He was a believer. He did what he could to help Jesus, and to stand with Jesus’ people. Jesus’ challenge to you and me today is that we should become His disciples. He wants more than “easy-believeism.” He wants us to mold our lives by obedience to His commands.

Conclusion: Nicodemus was a good man, but he still needed a Savior. We need a Savior, too. Let’s imitate Nicodemus by seeking a closer walk with Jesus; by humbly accepting the words and commands of Jesus; and by becoming His disciples. Amen.