John 19:39 – “He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.”

Extended Explanation

This verse introduces Nicodemus, a religious leader who had once been hesitant about openly following Jesus. Now, after Jesus’ death, he joins Joseph of Arimathea in giving Jesus a proper burial. Nicodemus brings a large amount of myrrh and aloes—an expensive mixture used for burial. This act shows that his respect for Jesus had grown into something more than curiosity; he was now willing to honor Jesus publicly, even though it could cost him.

Earlier in John 3, Nicodemus had secretly met with Jesus at night, asking about spiritual matters. Jesus told him, “You must be born again” (John 3:3). At the time, Nicodemus didn’t fully understand, but now, after witnessing Jesus’ crucifixion, he was ready to step forward.

The seventy-five pounds of burial spices (about 34 kilograms) was an extravagant amount, usually reserved for royalty. This was Nicodemus’ way of showing that Jesus was not just another man—He was a King.

Historical Context

Who Was Nicodemus?

• He was a Pharisee, a religious teacher who was part of the Jewish ruling council (Sanhedrin) (John 3:1).
• He had met Jesus at night, possibly out of fear of being seen (John 3:2).
• Later, he subtly defended Jesus before the religious leaders, asking if they should judge Him without hearing Him out (John 7:50-51).
• Now, he publicly honors Jesus by helping with His burial.

Burial Customs in Jewish Culture

• Jewish burials were done quickly, usually before sundown on the same day of death (Deuteronomy 21:22-23).
• Bodies were wrapped in linen cloth with spices to reduce the smell of decay.
• Rich and honored individuals, especially kings, were buried with large amounts of spices (2 Chronicles 16:14 describes King Asa being buried with spices).

Nicodemus bringing such an extravagant amount of myrrh and aloes was a clear sign that he viewed Jesus as more than just a teacher—he saw Him as a King worthy of great honor.

Theological Implications

1. Faith That Grows Over Time – Nicodemus first met Jesus secretly, but by the time of Jesus’ death, he was willing to honor Him publicly. His story shows that faith can develop gradually, leading to greater courage.
2. Jesus Was Buried as a King – The amount of burial spices used on Jesus was fit for royalty. Even in death, He was honored as King of Kings (Revelation 19:16).
3. Jesus’ Death Was Not the End – Though Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea didn’t yet understand the resurrection, their actions fulfilled prophecy and prepared for Jesus’ ultimate victory over death.
4. God Works in Unexpected Ways – Two members of the Sanhedrin, the very group that condemned Jesus, ended up caring for His body. This shows that even in places of opposition, God can work in hearts.

Literary Analysis

John’s Gospel is full of contrasts and themes of transformation. This verse is a key example.

• The Contrast Between Fear and Boldness – Earlier, Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, afraid to be seen. Now, he steps forward in daylight to care for Jesus’ body. His journey shows spiritual growth.
• Symbolism in the Burial Spices – The extravagant amount of spices is not just practical but symbolic. Jesus, rejected by men, was still honored in death, foreshadowing His ultimate glory in resurrection.
• John’s Theme of Personal Encounters with Jesus – Nicodemus is one of many people in John’s Gospel who met Jesus, struggled with belief, and then changed. His story mirrors others who slowly came to full faith.

Biblical Cross-References

• John 3:1-21 – Nicodemus’ first encounter with Jesus, where Jesus tells him about being born again.
• John 7:50-51 – Nicodemus defends Jesus before the religious leaders.
• Isaiah 53:9 – Prophecy that Jesus would be buried with the rich.
• 2 Chronicles 16:14 – Burial of a king with large amounts of spices, showing royal treatment.
• Matthew 2:11 – The wise men brought myrrh to Jesus at His birth, foreshadowing His burial.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Faith Takes Time to Grow – Nicodemus’ story shows that coming to faith can be a process. If you have doubts or questions, don’t be discouraged—God works patiently in hearts.
2. Public Faith Matters – There comes a time when private belief must be made public. Nicodemus moved from a secret seeker to an open disciple, showing us the importance of standing for Jesus.
3. Jesus Deserves Our Best – Nicodemus gave lavishly to honor Jesus. As believers, we should be willing to give our time, resources, and lives for Christ.
4. God Can Use Anyone – Even people in high places, like Nicodemus, can come to faith. Never assume someone is beyond God’s reach.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He patiently drew Nicodemus to Himself. Nicodemus started as a curious seeker but eventually became bold in his devotion. This is a picture of God’s kindness—He gives people time to understand and follow Him.

This verse also reminds us that Jesus’ burial was an act of love. God made sure that His Son was honored, even in death, as a sign that His sacrifice was precious and meaningful.

Finally, it shows that God works through ordinary people to accomplish His plans. Just as He used Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus to care for Jesus’ body, He invites believers today to take part in His work.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus, the Fulfillment of Prophecy – His burial with an abundance of spices fulfilled Isaiah 53:9.
2. Jesus, the King Even in Death – The large amount of spices symbolized royalty, affirming His kingship.
3. Jesus, the Transformer of Hearts – Nicodemus went from fearful seeker to bold disciple, showing how Jesus changes lives.
4. Jesus, the One Who Was Rejected Yet Honored – Though crucified in shame, He was buried with honor, foreshadowing His resurrection.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What do you think changed in Nicodemus’ heart that made him step forward to honor Jesus?
2. How does Nicodemus’ journey of faith encourage you in your own walk with Christ?
3. Why is it significant that Jesus was buried with spices fit for a king?
4. Have you ever struggled with fear in expressing your faith? How does Nicodemus’ story challenge you?
5. In what ways can we, like Nicodemus, show extravagant devotion to Jesus in our daily lives?

Nicodemus’ transformation is a powerful reminder that true faith requires action. He went from hiding in the dark to boldly honoring Jesus, showing that when we truly encounter Christ, we cannot remain silent. His burial preparations were not the end—but the beginning of something greater: Jesus’ resurrection and victory over death.