“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 19:39 (KJV)
“With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes.”– John 19:39 (NLT)
“Nicodemus, the same one who earlier had visited Jesus at night, arrived at the tomb carrying a mixture of myrrh and aloes—about seventy-five pounds in all.”– John 19:39 (MSG)
What Does John 19:39 Mean?
John 19:39 introduces us to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish council, who plays an essential role in the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion. This verse shows us that after Jesus has been crucified and laid in the tomb, Nicodemus comes forward to assist Joseph of Arimathea in preparing Jesus’ body for burial. This action speaks volumes about Nicodemus and his character.
We can see that Nicodemus, who previously came to Jesus by night seeking understanding, is now publicly revealing his allegiance to Jesus. This change shows a transformation within him. He comes with a mixture of myrrh and aloes, which were both costly and significant in the burial customs of the time. This mixture was a way to honor Jesus, showing respect and love for the Messiah even after his death.
In this short verse, we see a powerful message of devotion, courage, and the importance of taking a stand for what we believe in, even when it may seem unpopular or risky. Nicodemus, despite being a Pharisee, seems to have realized the truth about Jesus and is willing to act on it, highlighting that true faith can often lead us to take unexpected actions.
John 19:39 Explanation and Commentary
To understand this verse better, we should look at Nicodemus’ background. Earlier in the Gospel of John, Nicodemus came to Jesus under the cover of night, seeking answers regarding Jesus’ identity and teachings. His curiosity and desire to learn more about Jesus’ message indicate that he was wrestling with doubts and questions. This character development is key to understanding the significance of his actions after the crucifixion.
In deciding to help in Jesus’ burial, Nicodemus takes a bold step. In a time when Jesus was condemned, aligning himself with Jesus could lead to severe repercussions, both socially and politically. Nicodemus’ choice to carry about seventy-five pounds (about thirty-four kilograms) of myrrh and aloes demonstrates his profound respect for Jesus, as such expensive spices were rarely used lightly. By investing in this preparation, Nicodemus conveys his faith and acknowledges Jesus’ true worth.
Furthermore, this act of preparing Jesus’ body for burial also symbolizes hope. In Jewish culture, burial was treated with great care, and the use of such precious substances aligns with the notion of treating the deceased with utmost honor. We might consider this act an act of faith, not just a funeral rite; it signifies Nicodemus’ understanding that Jesus was, indeed, the Messiah.
It reaches out to us as well, challenging us to evaluate what sacrifices we are willing to make for our faith. Just as Nicodemus showed his devotion through acts of kindness, we, too, can reflect on how we demonstrate our love for Christ through our actions in our lives today. Whether that is caring for others, supporting our faith community, or simply taking a stand in our beliefs, we are encouraged through Nicodemus’ example.
Context of John 19:39
The context of John 19:39 is steeped in the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus. These events represent the climax of Jesus’ ministry on Earth. Previously in the Gospel, Jesus had endured trial and severe humiliation at the hands of Pontius Pilate and the Jewish leaders. The weight of this moment signifies not just the sorrow of Jesus’ death but also the confusion and despair felt by many of His followers. It’s a moment filled with weighty emotions and deep significance.
This was not simply an act of preparation for burial; it was the capping point of a series of transformational moments for those who witnessed Jesus’ life and teachings. Nicodemus’ decision to partake in Joseph’s burial plan shows he was no longer secretive about his faith. He was willing to stand in solidarity with Jesus and honor Him, even in death.
It’s essential to consider how John’s Gospel emphasizes belief and the transformation of heart. Starting from Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus in chapter 3, where Jesus discusses being “born again,” the narrative arc culminates to this moment. Here we see that belief can evolve and grow, inviting us to explore how our faith deepens over time.
In this frame of finality, the reader is reminded that the journey of faith does not end with Jesus’ death. While it was a moment of grief, it was also a precursor to the resurrection — the ultimate demonstration of hope and restoration. It calls us to embrace the truth that, even in times of despair, there is the promise of renewal ahead.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of John 19:39
To fully grasp John 19:39, let’s break down its key components. The verse begins with the introduction of Nicodemus, an important figure within the Jewish culture who held significant status. This immediately places an emphasis on the boldness of his actions, as he was not just any ordinary person but someone whose decisions held weight in society.
Next, we see Nicodemus arriving with a mixture of myrrh and aloes. The mention of “myrrh” is particularly poignant as it is often associated with death. Historically, myrrh has been used both for embalming and as a perfume, indicating that it was more than just a ceremonial gesture. It speaks to the deep respect and value Nicodemus had for Jesus. The weight of the mixture, around seventy-five pounds, further elaborates the level of devotion and respect Nicodemus wanted to convey in this final act.
We may ask ourselves why the Gospel of John details this act. It is there to remind us that Jesus’ impact extended far beyond his immediate disciples. It also illustrates that individuals can change their views on faith and follow the light, no matter the past. Nicodemus’ transformation showcases the potential for all of us to seek redemption and act upon our beliefs boldly.
Finally, we reflect on the setting of this event. This moment takes place immediately after Jesus’ crucifixion, an act that has wide-reaching implications for humanity. The despair following His death carries a weight that is palpable. Yet, in this act of kindness from Nicodemus, we are also presented with a flicker of hope and redemption. This layering of emotions reminds us that life is full of ups and downs, yet acts of love and faith can shine through the darkest moments.
Lessons to Learn From John 19:39
There are several vital lessons we can glean from John 19:39. This verse echoes the concept of personal transformation, urging us to reflect on our journey of faith. Each of us might relate to Nicodemus in how his understanding and beliefs evolved over time. It serves as a reminder that no matter where we start, we can seek a deeper relationship with Jesus. Each step we take matters and contributes to our spiritual journey.
Additionally, we learn about the importance of taking bold action in our faith. Nicodemus could have remained silent or hidden but instead decided to act publicly. This challenges us to consider how we showcase our beliefs in our daily lives. Are we willing to take a stand for our faith, even when it might lead to difficulties? Courage is often needed to act according to our beliefs, and Nicodemus’ example teaches us that it is alright to show our faith, especially in challenging times.
We can also understand the theme of service. Nicodemus’ actions speak to us about the importance of serving others. Here he serves Jesus in death in a way that honors Him and acknowledges His significance. In our own lives, how are we serving those around us? This verse invites us to take on a servant’s heart, offering our time, resources, and love to those in need. Each small act of kindness matters and can make a significant difference in someone else’s life.
Moreover, we should reflect on the hope imbued within acts of faith. Nicodemus’ actions may have occurred at a time filled with sorrow and despair, yet they also signify hope. They remind us that even in the bleakest moments, our faith can lead us to act in ways that impact our lives and those around us positively. There is always a glimmer of hope shining through darkness, waiting for us to grasp it.
Final Thoughts
In closing, John 19:39 presents a beautiful portrayal of faith, transformation, and the impact of our actions. Nikodemus demonstrates that no matter how hidden our faith may seem at first, it can blossom into a bold expression of love and understanding. What we take from this verse invites us to recognize that belief has the power to evolve.
As we reflect on our spiritual journey, let us remember how every action, no matter how small, represents our commitment to our beliefs. We are encouraged to stand firm in our faith, just like Nicodemus did, and to offer our love to others. Let his story inspire us as we navigate our own paths, guiding us toward courageous acts of kindness and service.
If you feel inspired, consider exploring more topics about faith and understanding scripture. Each new perspective can deepen our relationship with God. You may find wisdom in different texts, like John 7:10, which also speaks to the growth of faith, or examine the accounts of the Israelites in Numbers 13:22.