“Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council.” (John 3:1, NIV)
Under Roman rule, it was the Sanhedrin that was charged with the responsibility for making religious decisions and keeping civil rule. To be a member of the Sanhedrin was considered a coveted position of power and prestige especially if one were a Pharisee such as Nicodemus.
The Pharisees were the wealthiest and most traditional members of the Sanhedrin and much of what they did was done with lavish pomp and circumstance. There was a proud and arrogant air about them. They were experts in tradition, ceremony, washings and purification rites, like some religious folks today who belong to elite religious crowds.
And yet, here comes Nicodemus, a Pharisee humbly presenting himself before the Lord. And it is precisely for this reason that we read of him today. His humility has preserved something of him, while the pomp and circumstance of his brothers and their names have passed on to oblivion.
What of you my friend? Would you humbly present yourself that you too might be preserved by Jesus, our Savior and King?
Living Big In Jesus,
Keith