New Life In ChristSample

Day Six

Stepping into the Light

Scripture: Psalm 56:13; John 8:12; John 19:38–42

The Bible gives us another window into Nicodemus’s spiritual journey. Fast-forward to the end of Jesus’s life. The Lord has been crucified as the most controversial figure of His day. This was a dangerous time to be identified with Jesus, whom many considered to be leading a revolution to overthrow the government. Even His disciples were hiding behind closed doors, protecting their own lives at this volatile time. Only John and several faithful women, including Jesus’s mother, remained with Him until the end as He hung upon the cross. 

When it came time to bury the body of Jesus, though, two secret believers stepped forward to claim His corpse. Their intent was to give Him an honorable burial (John 19:38). Joseph of Arimathea asked for the body, and Pilate granted his request. Joining him in this perilous endeavor was none other than Nicodemus. This heroic act exposed Joseph and Nicodemus to great danger. Nevertheless, these two men courageously stepped up. 

It is reasonable to assume that Nicodemus had come to a firm commitment to Christ by this time. He demonstrated a willingness to suffer for Christ in the face of danger. He appeared to have changed his allegiance from hating the Light to loving it. He was willing to risk his life for the One who died to purchase his salvation. 

Nicodemus had come a long way from his initial private meeting with Jesus. At that time, he was fearful anyone would see him meeting with Jesus, but now he was willing to risk persecution and possible martyrdom for Christ. Here was a man unashamed of Jesus before a sinful generation, willing to be identified with Jesus—whatever it may cost him. 

This is what saving faith does. It owns Jesus as Lord and Savior before the eyes of a watching world. Saving faith embraces Jesus, whatever the outcome. It turns its back to the world and follows Christ, even in the face of mounting difficulty. Saving faith comes out of the darkness and steps into the Light, the “light of life” (John 8:12).

Describe a time when speaking out about your beliefs have cost you something.