This week’s Reflections was written by the Rev. Dorthy Tufte of the Brookings Ministerial Association

I have long been fascinated with the person of Nicodemus in the Bible.

Scripture speaks of Nicodemus in three separate scenes in the Gospel of John. Though he holds a seemingly small place in Scripture, his story is a significant turning point in the revelation of who Jesus is. As part of the Jewish Council, Nicodemus risked his reputation, good standing, and future position by visiting Jesus. The Pharisees were the religious leaders and ruled with a firm grip. Jesus and John the Baptist criticized the Pharisees for their hypocrisy. They hated Jesus for undermining their authority and challenging their actions. They were intensely jealous of him because he had a growing popularity, attracting much attention wherever he taught.

Nicodemus was inquiring, yet cautious, hesitant, and fearful. Perhaps he visits Jesus under the cover of darkness to assuage his fears of being seen with the enemy, as Jesus was considered to be by the Pharisees. John 3:2 shows Nicodemus stating, “We know you are a teacher who has come from God,” thus acknowledging Jesus’ authority.

His knowledge and interest come from seeing Jesus’ miracles. Yet, Nicodemus is not declaring himself a believer that Jesus is the Son of God, just that he is an effective teacher. Jesus responds by acknowledging that Nicodemus himself is a teacher and well-educated yet lacks knowledge of Truth.

Jesus knows this is a state of ignorance, not a rejection of himself. He challenges Nicodemus and declares to him the love of God for mankind.

Jesus reveals the way of salvation to Nicodemus, seen in John 3:15-17. It helps me to more clearly understand Scripture by diagramming and defining it. Let us use this too, to look specifically at John 3:16:

• “For God so loves the world…” God’s motivation
• “He gave his only begotten son…” God’s great sacrifice
• “…that whoever…” every woman, man, child in the world
• “…believes in him…” our decision to believe and follow him
• “…shall not perish…” God’s mercy
• “…but…” instead, rather than death
• “…shall have eternal life.” God’s great gift; his grace

Nicodemus is seen two more times in Scripture. Next, Chapter 7:50-52, as the Jewish Council discusses how to eliminate Jesus, Nicodemus challenges them, reminding them of their responsibility, “Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he is about?” His boldness indicates growth into spiritual discernment. John 19 gives the final glimpse of Nicodemus. Jesus is condemned, crucified, and hanging on the cross. The Sabath quickly approaching, the body must be taken care of promptly. Nicodemus joins Joseph of Arimathea, a secret believer and disciple of Jesus, in taking possession. The spices and oils used in prepration for burial are provided by Nicodemus. The tomb is purchased by Joseph. Their final service to Jesus is their respectful, loving care of his body.

Today many seek truth and meaning. May Nicodemus’ journey to faith and the words of Scipture call to them, drawing them to Jesus’ side.