John 3:1

¶ There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:

{G1161} There was {G2258} a man {G444} of {G1537} the Pharisees {G5330}, named {G3686}{G846} Nicodemus {G3530}, a ruler {G758} of the Jews {G2453}:

There was a man among the P’rushim, named Nakdimon, who was a ruler of the Judeans.

Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews.

Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:

Commentary

John 3:1 (KJV): ¶ There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:

Commentary on John 3:1 KJV

This verse introduces a pivotal character in the Gospel of John: Nicodemus. It sets the stage for one of Jesus' most significant and well-known dialogues, which unfolds throughout the remainder of chapter 3.

Context

Following Jesus' actions in Jerusalem, including clearing the temple and performing miracles (John 2), this verse describes a specific individual who is drawn to Jesus. The setting is likely Jerusalem during the Passover feast. John 3:1 identifies Nicodemus by two important characteristics: he was "a man of the Pharisees" and "a ruler of the Jews." The Pharisees were a prominent religious and political group known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic law and oral traditions. Being a "ruler of the Jews" indicates he was likely a member of the Sanhedrin, the high Jewish council, giving him considerable authority and influence among the people and religious leaders.

Key Themes

  • Introduction of Nicodemus: The verse focuses entirely on identifying this key individual.
  • Religious and Political Standing: Highlighting Nicodemus as both a Pharisee and a ruler emphasizes his established position within the Jewish religious and political structure.
  • Seeking Jesus: This introduction immediately precedes his private visit to Jesus, hinting at curiosity or a deeper spiritual search despite his prominent status.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Pharisee" (Greek: Pharisaios) comes from a Hebrew root meaning "separated ones," reflecting their dedication to purity and strict interpretation of the law. The phrase "ruler of the Jews" (Greek: archōn tōn Ioudaiōn) signifies a person in authority, typically referring to a member of the Sanhedrin, the supreme court and governing body of the Jewish nation under Roman rule. This highlights Nicodemus's elevated status and his deep involvement in Jewish religious and political life.

Related Scriptures

This verse serves as the introduction to Nicodemus's encounter with Jesus. The narrative immediately continues with his action of seeking Jesus out, as described in John 3:2. Later in John's Gospel, Nicodemus is mentioned again, showing a developing relationship with Jesus's followers and teachings (John 7:50-51, John 19:39-40). His identity as a Pharisee and ruler provides a stark contrast to the humble fishermen and tax collectors Jesus often called, setting the stage for Jesus' teaching on spiritual rebirth, which applies to everyone regardless of status or background (See John 3:3).

Reflection

The introduction of Nicodemus reminds us that Jesus' message was not exclusively for the marginalized but also reached those firmly embedded within the established religious and political system. His seeking Jesus, even under the cover of night (John 3:2), suggests a genuine spiritual curiosity or need that his status could not fulfill. This verse prompts us to consider that spiritual seeking can occur across all levels of society and often requires individuals to step outside their comfort zones or established roles to find truth.

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Cross-References

  • John 19:39 (7 votes)

    And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound [weight].

  • John 7:47 (5 votes)

    Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?

  • John 7:50 (5 votes)

    Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)

  • John 3:10 (4 votes)

    Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

  • Luke 23:13 (2 votes)

    ¶ And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people,