Nicodemus
nicodemus is part of the rich historical narrative of God's dealings with His people in the Old Testament.
10
Verse Refs
1
Books
1
Sub-Topics
Quick Facts
- Etymology
- “victory of the people”
- Occupation
- Pharisee, Ruler of the Jews, Member of the Sanhedrin
- Lifespan
- 1st Century AD
- Testament
- New Testament
- Type
- Person
- Referenced In
- 1 books of the Bible
Biography
Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews who came to Jesus by night to ask about His teachings. Jesus told him that a man must be born again to see the kingdom of God. Though initially confused, Nicodemus later defended Jesus before the Sanhedrin (John 7:50-51) and helped prepare His body for burial with costly spices (John 19:39-40), showing a growing faith that moved from secrecy to open devotion.
Significance
Nicodemus represents the sincere seeker who moves from intellectual curiosity to genuine faith. His conversation with Jesus produced the most famous verse in the Bible — John 3:16 — and introduced the essential doctrine of being born again.
Timeline
Night Visit to Jesus
Learned about the new birth and God's love for the world (John 3:16).
John 3:1-21
Defended Jesus Before the Sanhedrin
Spoke up for fairness, asking that Jesus be heard before being judged.
John 7:50-51
Helped Prepare Jesus' Body for Burial
Brought 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes — an act of open devotion and great cost.
John 19:39-40
Key Relationships
Jesus
Teacher / Lord
Joseph of Arimathea
Ally in Burial
Topical Index
1 sub-topics from Nave's Topical Bible
A Jewish rabbi -Becomes a disciple of Jesus
Key Verses
John 3:1-10
A Jewish rabbi -Becomes a disciple of Jesus