NICODEMUS

SEPTEMBER 1st

NICODEMUS    Reading: John 3:1-5.

If the disciples were present at this nocturnal interview they must have marvelled that the Lord Jesus dealt so uncompromisingly with this leader whose support might have given them some standing in the religious world. He who had welcomed men like Matthew now sent Nicodemus away with the firm insistence that he could only be accepted on the basis of new birth. Nicodemus wanted to bring his own knowledge and religious experience to enrich the apostolic band, but the Lord Jesus could not accept such an offer. Another nameless ruler who wished to contribute his material wealth was similarly rejected (Mark 10:22). With Christ we either begin at zero or we do not begin at all. Until Nicodemus had learned this lesson there was no alternative but to go back into the night.

From 'Daily Thoughts' by Harry Foster. [83/84]