John 7:50
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 7:50
50 Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)
Chapter Context
John 7 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, worship, faith. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-53: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 7:50
50 Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)
Analysis
Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,) Nicodemus, the Pharisee who met Jesus in John 3, cautiously defends Him. The parenthetical 'came to Jesus by night' reminds readers of chapter 3's dialogue while highlighting Nicodemus's timidity—he came secretly. 'Being one of them' shows Nicodemus was a Sanhedrin member, thus his voice carried weight. His intervention demonstrates that not all Pharisees rejected Jesus, though most did.
Historical Context
Nicodemus appears three times in John: the night conversation (3:1-21), this defense (7:50-51), and bringing burial spices after crucifixion (19:39-40). His trajectory shows gradual movement toward open faith, though John never explicitly states he believed. Church tradition holds he became a Christian. His timid defense here contrasts with Joseph of Arimathea's later boldness (19:38). Some rulers believed but feared confession (John 12:42-43), valuing human approval over God's.
Reflection
- How does Nicodemus demonstrate gradual movement toward faith?
- What prevents people from openly confessing Christ despite private belief?
- How do we encourage timid believers toward open confession?
Cross-References
- References Jesus: John 19:39