Nicodemus in the Bible: Pharisee, Seeker, Disciple?
Quick Summary
Nicodemus appears three times in the Gospel of John: in his nighttime conversation with Jesus in John 3, in his cautious defense in John 7, and in his bold act of devotion at Jesus’ burial in John 19. A Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus embodies both the questions and the quiet courage of those drawn to Christ. His story reveals the struggle of belief, the risk of discipleship, and the hope of transformation.
Introduction
Among the figures who appear in the Gospel of John, Nicodemus stands out because his story traces a journey many of us recognize—the journey from curiosity to cautious faith to courageous devotion. As a respected Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus carried influence and authority. Yet he also carried questions that only Jesus could answer.
This post explores who Nicodemus was, his encounters with Jesus, and what happened to him. We will trace his appearances in John 3, John 7, and John 19, asking how his story speaks to us today.
Who Is Nicodemus in the Bible?
Nicodemus first appears in John 3, where he is identified as a Pharisee and “a leader of the Jews.” This suggests he was part of the Sanhedrin, the ruling council in Jerusalem. Pharisees were respected for their devotion to the law, but they often clashed with Jesus over his interpretation of it. For Nicodemus to seek Jesus out was no small act—it meant risking his reputation among his peers.
His name, of Greek origin, means “victory of the people.” Yet ironically, Nicodemus seems uncertain and searching rather than victorious. He comes by night, which some connect with secrecy and some with late-night study. In him, we see a man of status humbled by questions, a leader willing to learn from a rabbi from Galilee.
Nicodemus and Jesus in John 3
John 3:1–21 records the famous encounter. Nicodemus approaches Jesus at night and acknowledges him as a teacher from God. Jesus, however, responds with a startling statement: “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above” (John 3:3). Nicodemus struggles to grasp this idea. How can an old man be born again?
Jesus presses further: rebirth is not physical but spiritual, a birth of “water and Spirit” (John 3:5). He speaks of the Spirit’s mysterious work, comparing it to the wind. He then points Nicodemus to the cross: “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life” (John 3:14–15).
This conversation contains one of Scripture’s most beloved verses—John 3:16—but it also captures Nicodemus’ bewilderment. He comes with respect and curiosity but leaves puzzled. Yet seeds are planted. Nicodemus represents those drawn to Jesus, even if they do not yet fully understand.
(See also: Understanding Nicodemus: A Study of John 3)
Nicodemus in John 7
Nicodemus reappears in John 7:45–52, during the Festival of Booths. The temple police return empty-handed after being sent to arrest Jesus, and the Pharisees ridicule them. Nicodemus cautiously speaks up: “Our law does not judge people without first giving them a hearing to find out what they are doing, does it?” (John 7:51).
This is not a bold declaration of faith, but it is a defense of fairness and justice. Nicodemus risks aligning himself with Jesus by insisting on due process. The other Pharisees dismiss him: “Surely you are not also from Galilee, are you?” (John 7:52). Their mockery underscores the cost of even minimal support for Jesus. Nicodemus’ voice, however hesitant, shows a step forward from silent curiosity to public concern.
Nicodemus in John 19: With Joseph of Arimathea
The final appearance comes in John 19:38–42, after the crucifixion. Joseph of Arimathea, a secret disciple, asks Pilate for Jesus’ body. Nicodemus joins him, bringing “a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds” (John 19:39). This lavish gift would have been extraordinarily expensive, fit for royalty.
Together, Nicodemus and Joseph wrap Jesus’ body with spices and linen, following Jewish burial customs. This act of devotion is Nicodemus’ boldest step yet. No longer coming by night, he openly identifies with Jesus at his death. The one who first struggled with new birth now participates in preparing the body of the crucified one—the very moment when eternal life is revealed.
(See also: Nicodemus and the Woman at the Well)
What Happened to Nicodemus?
The Gospel of John leaves Nicodemus’ story open-ended. Tradition suggests he may have become a disciple, and some accounts even portray him as a martyr. Scripture itself offers no definitive conclusion, but his progression across the Gospel—curiosity in John 3, cautious defense in John 7, and costly devotion in John 19—paints a portrait of growing faith.
Nicodemus reminds us that discipleship is often a journey, not a single moment. Faith can begin with questions, grow through small acts of courage, and culminate in acts of love and sacrifice. His story invites us to ask: Where am I on that journey?
Theological Reflections
Faith as a Process – Nicodemus illustrates that faith does not always come suddenly. Sometimes it grows through steps of curiosity, questioning, and cautious commitment.
Risk of Discipleship – Speaking up for Jesus carried social and political risk. Nicodemus shows that discipleship often involves courage, even when our voices seem small.
Love in Action – In John 19, Nicodemus’ lavish burial offering reveals that true faith expresses itself in costly devotion.
These themes echo throughout John’s Gospel and into 1 John, which insists that love is the evidence of true faith (1 John 4:7–21). Nicodemus’ story also resonates with Revelation, where disciples are called to overcome fear and bear witness, even when costly (Revelation 12).
Nicodemus: Meaning for Today
For modern readers, Nicodemus offers encouragement. Some of us, like him, may approach Jesus with questions rather than certainty. Others may find ourselves speaking quietly when boldness feels overwhelming. Still others may be ready to act in devotion, even when it costs us. Nicodemus shows us that each step matters—and that Jesus meets us with patience along the way.
His journey reminds us that discipleship is not about flawless faith but about moving steadily toward Christ. Whether in the secrecy of night, the tension of public debate, or the vulnerability of service, the call remains the same: to follow the one who gives eternal life.
See Also
FAQ Section
Who was Nicodemus in the Bible?
Nicodemus was a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council who sought out Jesus by night and later assisted in his burial.
Did Nicodemus become a believer?
Scripture does not explicitly say, but his progression across John’s Gospel suggests growing faith and devotion.
What happened to Nicodemus after the Gospel accounts?
Later traditions suggest he became a disciple and even a martyr, though the Bible itself does not confirm this.
Why is Nicodemus important?
He represents the journey of faith: from questions, to courage, to costly devotion.
Sources / Further Reading
Raymond Brown, John I–XII, ch. 3
Craig Keener, John, vol. 1, ch. 3
D.A. Carson, John, ch. 7
Andreas Köstenberger, John, ch. 19
