CINXE.COM

<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>John 3:2 He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him."</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/john/3-2.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/43_Jhn_03_02.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="John 3:2 - Jesus and Nicodemus" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="He came to Jesus at night and said, Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/john/3-2.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/john/3-2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/john/">John</a> > <a href="/john/3.htm">Chapter 3</a> > Verse 2</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad2.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/john/3-1.htm" title="John 3:1">◄</a> John 3:2 <a href="/john/3-3.htm" title="John 3:3">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/john/3.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/john/3.htm">New International Version</a> He came to Jesus at night and said, &#8220Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.&#8221 <a href="/nlt/john/3.htm">New Living Translation</a> After dark one evening, he came to speak with Jesus. “Rabbi,” he said, “we all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.” <a href="/esv/john/3.htm">English Standard Version</a> This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” <a href="/bsb/john/3.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him.” <a href="/blb/john/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> He came to Him by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher, for no one is able to do these signs that You do, unless God should be with him." <a href="/kjv/john/3.htm">King James Bible</a> The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. <a href="/nkjv/john/3.htm">New King James Version</a> This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” <a href="/nasb_/john/3.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> this man came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” <a href="/nasb/john/3.htm">NASB 1995</a> this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, &#8220Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.&#8221 <a href="/nasb77/john/3.htm">NASB 1977 </a> this man came to Him by night, and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” <a href="/lsb/john/3.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> this man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” <a href="/amp/john/3.htm">Amplified Bible</a> who came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi (Teacher), we know [without any doubt] that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs [these wonders, these attesting miracles] that You do unless God is with him.” <a href="/csb/john/3.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> This man came to him at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one could perform these signs you do unless God were with him.” <a href="/hcsb/john/3.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> This man came to Him at night and said, &#8220Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher, for no one could perform these signs You do unless God were with him.&#8221 <a href="/asv/john/3.htm">American Standard Version</a> the same came unto him by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that thou doest, except God be with him. <a href="/cev/john/3.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> One night he went to Jesus and said, "Rabbi, we know that God has sent you to teach us. You could not work these miracles, unless God were with you." <a href="/erv/john/3.htm">English Revised Version</a> The same came unto him by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these signs that thou doest, except God be with him. <a href="/gwt/john/3.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> He came to Jesus one night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that God has sent you as a teacher. No one can perform the miracles you perform unless God is with him." <a href="/gnt/john/3.htm">Good News Translation</a> One night he went to Jesus and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher sent by God. No one could perform the miracles you are doing unless God were with him." <a href="/isv/john/3.htm">International Standard Version</a> He came to Jesus at night and told him, "Rabbi, we know that you have come from God as a teacher, because no one can perform these signs that you are doing unless God is with him." <a href="/msb/john/3.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> He came to Jesus at night and said, ?Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him.? <a href="/net/john/3.htm">NET Bible</a> came to Jesus at night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs that you do unless God is with him." <a href="/nheb/john/3.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> This man came to him at night, and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him." <a href="/wbt/john/3.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> The same came to Jesus by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. <a href="/wey/john/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> He came to Jesus by night and said, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher from God; for no one can do these miracles which you are doing, unless God is with him. <a href="/web/john/3.htm">World English Bible</a> He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him.” <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/john/3.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> this one came to Him by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we have known that You have come from God—a teacher, for no one is able to do these signs that You do, if God may not be with him.” <a href="/blb/john/3.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> He came to Him by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher, for no one is able to do these signs that You do, unless God should be with him." <a href="/ylt/john/3.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> this one came unto him by night, and said to him, 'Rabbi, we have known that from God thou hast come -- a teacher, for no one these signs is able to do that thou dost, if God may not be with him.' <a href="/slt/john/3.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> He came to Jesus by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou hast come a teacher from God: for none can do these signs which thou doest, except God be with him.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/john/3.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> This man came to Jesus by night, and said to him: Rabbi, we know that thou art come a teacher from God; for no man can do these signs which thou dost, unless God be with him. <a href="/cpdv/john/3.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> He went to Jesus at night, and he said to him: “Rabbi, we know that you have arrived as a teacher from God. For no one would be able to accomplish these signs, which you accomplish, unless God were with him.” <a href="/nabre/john/3.htm">New American Bible</a> He came to Jesus at night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you are doing unless God is with him.” <a href="/nrsvce/john/3.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.”<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/john/3.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> He came at night to Jesus and said to him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher sent from God; for no man can do these miracles that you are doing, except God is with him. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/john/3.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> This man came to Yeshua at night and said to him: “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher sent from God, for no man is able to do these miracles that you are doing unless God were with him.”<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/john/3.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> This man came to Jesus by night, and said to him: Rabbi, we know that thou hast come as a teacher from God; for no man can do these signs which thou doest, unless God be with him.<CM> <a href="/godbey/john/3.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> the same came to Him by night, and said to Him, Rabbi, we know that thou hast come a teacher from God; for no one is able to do these miracles, which thou art doing, unless God may he with him. <a href="/haweis/john/3.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> this man came to Jesus in the night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles which thou dost, unless God be with him. <a href="/mace/john/3.htm">Mace New Testament</a> who came to Jesus by night, and said to him, rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher sent from God: for no man can perform the miracles that you do, except God be with him. <a href="/wey/john/3.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> He came to Jesus by night and said, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher from God; for no one can do these miracles which you are doing, unless God is with him. <a href="/worrell/john/3.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> This man came to Jesus by night, and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that Thou hast come, as a Teacher, from God; for no one can do the signs which Thou art doing, unless God be with Him." <a href="/worsley/john/3.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> who came to Jesus by night, and said unto Him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for none can do these miracles which thou dost, unless God be with him. <a href="/parallel/john/3-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ixy2bchmXZ0?start=608" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/john/3.htm">Jesus and Nicodemus</a> 1Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. 2<a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: houtos (DPro-NMS) -- This; he, she, it. ">He</a> <a href="/greek/2064.htm" title="2064: ēlthen (V-AIA-3S) -- To come, go. ">came</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">Jesus</a> <a href="/greek/3571.htm" title="3571: nyktos (N-GFS) -- The night, night-time. A primary word; night.">at night</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/2036.htm" title="2036: eipen (V-AIA-3S) -- Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say.">said,</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autō (PPro-DM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> <a href="/greek/4461.htm" title="4461: Rhabbi (N-VMS) -- Of Hebrew origin; my master, i.e Rabbi, as an official title of honor.">“Rabbi,</a> <a href="/greek/1492.htm" title="1492: oidamen (V-RIA-1P) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">we know</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/1320.htm" title="1320: didaskalos (N-NMS) -- A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor.">You are a teacher</a> <a href="/greek/2064.htm" title="2064: elēlythas (V-RIA-2S) -- To come, go. ">who has come</a> <a href="/greek/575.htm" title="575: apo (Prep) -- From, away from. A primary particle; off, i.e. Away, in various senses.">from</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God.</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/3762.htm" title="3762: oudeis (Adj-NMS) -- No one, none, nothing. ">no one</a> <a href="/greek/1410.htm" title="1410: dynatai (V-PIM/P-3S) -- (a) I am powerful, have (the) power, (b) I am able, I can. Of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible.">could</a> <a href="/greek/4160.htm" title="4160: poiein (V-PNA) -- (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.">perform</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: tauta (DPro-ANP) -- This; he, she, it. ">the</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-ANP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4592.htm" title="4592: sēmeia (N-ANP) -- Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of semaino; an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally.">signs</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: ha (RelPro-ANP) -- Who, which, what, that. "></a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: sy (PPro-N2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">You</a> <a href="/greek/4160.htm" title="4160: poieis (V-PIA-2S) -- (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.">are doing</a> <a href="/greek/1437.htm" title="1437: ean (Conj) -- If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.">if</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theos (N-NMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: ē (V-PSA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">were</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.">not</a> <a href="/greek/3326.htm" title="3326: met’ (Prep) -- (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. ">with</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">him.”</a> 3Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/john/1-1.htm">John 1:1-3</a> In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. / He was with God in the beginning. / Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. <a href="/john/7-50.htm">John 7:50-51</a> Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who himself was one of them, asked, / “Does our law convict a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” <a href="/john/19-39.htm">John 19:39</a> Nicodemus, who had previously come to Jesus at night, also brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. <a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Matthew 22:16</a> They sent their disciples to Him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and that You teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You seek favor from no one, because You pay no attention to external appearance. <a href="/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14</a> “Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?” <a href="/luke/20-21.htm">Luke 20:21</a> “Teacher,” they inquired, “we know that You speak and teach correctly. You show no partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. <a href="/acts/2-22.htm">Acts 2:22</a> Men of Israel, listen to this message: Jesus of Nazareth was a man certified by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know. <a href="/acts/10-38.htm">Acts 10:38</a> how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him. <a href="/romans/3-21.htm">Romans 3:21</a> But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, as attested by the Law and the Prophets. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-7.htm">1 Corinthians 2:7-8</a> No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began. / None of the rulers of this age understood it. For if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-19.htm">2 Corinthians 5:19</a> that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. <a href="/philippians/2-7.htm">Philippians 2:7-8</a> but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. / And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross. <a href="/hebrews/2-4.htm">Hebrews 2:4</a> and was affirmed by God through signs, wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to His will. <a href="/hebrews/4-15.htm">Hebrews 4:15</a> For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. <a href="/1_john/4-14.htm">1 John 4:14</a> And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>The same came to Jesus by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that you do, except God be with him.came.<a href="/john/7-50.htm">John 7:50,51</a> Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,) … <a href="/john/12-42.htm">John 12:42,43</a> Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: … <a href="/john/19-38.htm">John 19:38,39</a> And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus… Rabbi.<a href="/john/3-26.htm">John 3:26</a> And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.<a href="/john/1-38.htm">John 1:38</a> Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?<a href="/john/20-16.htm">John 20:16</a> Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.we know.<a href="/matthew/22-16.htm">Matthew 22:16</a> And they sent out unto him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the person of men.<a href="/mark/12-14.htm">Mark 12:14</a> And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?for.<a href="/john/5-36.htm">John 5:36</a> But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.<a href="/john/7-31.htm">John 7:31</a> And many of the people believed on him, and said, When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?<a href="/john/9-16.htm">John 9:16,30-33</a> Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/john/1-46.htm">Able</a> <a href="/john/1-33.htm">Except</a> <a href="/john/2-24.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/john/2-23.htm">Miracles</a> <a href="/john/2-18.htm">Miraculous</a> <a href="/luke/22-61.htm">Night</a> <a href="/luke/13-32.htm">Perform</a> <a href="/john/1-49.htm">Rabbi</a> <a href="/john/2-23.htm">Signs</a> <a href="/john/1-38.htm">Teacher</a> <a href="/luke/13-5.htm">Unless</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/john/3-3.htm">Able</a> <a href="/john/3-3.htm">Except</a> <a href="/john/3-3.htm">Jesus</a> <a href="/john/4-48.htm">Miracles</a> <a href="/john/4-48.htm">Miraculous</a> <a href="/john/7-50.htm">Night</a> <a href="/john/6-30.htm">Perform</a> <a href="/john/3-26.htm">Rabbi</a> <a href="/john/4-48.htm">Signs</a> <a href="/john/3-10.htm">Teacher</a> <a href="/john/3-3.htm">Unless</a><div class="vheading2">John 3</div>1. <a href="/john/3-1.htm">Jesus teaches Nicodemus the necessity of being born again,</a> 14. <a href="/john/3-14.htm">of faith in his death,</a> 16. <a href="/john/3-16.htm">the great love of God toward the world,</a> 18. <a href="/john/3-18.htm">and the condemnation for unbelief.</a> 22. <a href="/john/3-22.htm">Jesus baptizes in Judea.</a> 23. <a href="/john/3-23.htm">The baptism, witness, and doctrine of John concerning Jesus.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/3.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/john/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/john/3.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>He came to Jesus at night Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, approaches Jesus under the cover of darkness. This timing may indicate a desire for privacy, possibly due to fear of being seen by other Jewish leaders. Nighttime meetings were not uncommon in ancient times for those seeking uninterrupted conversation. Theologically, the motif of night can symbolize spiritual darkness, contrasting with Jesus as the "light of the world" (<a href="/john/8-12.htm">John 8:12</a>).and said, “Rabbi, Nicodemus addresses Jesus as "Rabbi," a term of respect meaning "teacher." Despite his own status as a learned Pharisee, Nicodemus acknowledges Jesus' authority and wisdom. This reflects a recognition of Jesus' unique role and the respect He commanded even among some Jewish leaders.we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. Nicodemus speaks on behalf of others, suggesting that there is a collective acknowledgment among some Jewish leaders of Jesus' divine mission. This statement implies an awareness of Jesus' divine authority and aligns with the Old Testament prophecies of a coming teacher or prophet like Moses (<a href="/deuteronomy/18-15.htm">Deuteronomy 18:15</a>).For no one could perform the signs You are doing The "signs" refer to the miracles Jesus performed, which were seen as evidence of divine power. In the Gospel of John, signs are significant as they reveal Jesus' identity and mission. These acts fulfill Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah performing miraculous deeds (<a href="/isaiah/35-5.htm">Isaiah 35:5-6</a>).if God were not with him.” This phrase acknowledges the divine presence and approval in Jesus' ministry. It echoes the concept of God being with His chosen servants, as seen with figures like Moses (<a href="/exodus/3-12.htm">Exodus 3:12</a>) and David (<a href="/1_samuel/16-18.htm">1 Samuel 16:18</a>). It underscores the belief that Jesus' works are a testament to His divine origin and mission.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/n/nicodemus.htm">Nicodemus</a> A Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. He approaches Jesus at night, indicating a level of caution or desire for privacy. 2. <a href="/topical/j/jesus.htm">Jesus</a> Referred to as "Rabbi" by Nicodemus, acknowledging His authority and teaching. Jesus is recognized as a teacher from God due to the signs He performs. 3. <a href="/topical/n/night.htm">Night</a> The time when Nicodemus visits Jesus, possibly symbolizing spiritual darkness or a desire for secrecy. 4. <a href="/topical/s/signs.htm">Signs</a> Miraculous works performed by Jesus, which serve as evidence of His divine mission and authority. 5. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The source of Jesus' authority and power, as acknowledged by Nicodemus.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/a/approaching_jesus_with_questions.htm">Approaching Jesus with Questions</a> Nicodemus' approach to Jesus at night shows that it is okay to seek understanding and clarity, even if it means doing so privately at first. <a href="/topical/r/recognizing_divine_authority.htm">Recognizing Divine Authority</a> Acknowledging Jesus as a teacher from God is a crucial step in faith. We should recognize the divine authority in Jesus' teachings and actions. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_signs_and_miracles.htm">The Role of Signs and Miracles</a> Miracles serve as a testament to Jesus' divine mission. They are not just wonders but signs pointing to a greater truth about who Jesus is. <a href="/topical/c/courage_in_faith.htm">Courage in Faith</a> Nicodemus' journey from a secretive meeting to public defense and care for Jesus' body shows the growth of faith and courage. Our faith journey may also require us to move from private belief to public action.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_john_3.htm">Top 10 Lessons from John 3</a> <a href="/q/are_you_in_heaven_or_hell.htm">Are you in Heaven or Hell?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'crypto-christian'_mean.htm">What does "crypto-Christian" mean?</a> <a href="/q/who_was_nicodemus_in_the_bible.htm">Who was Nicodemus in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_john_3_5_mean_historically.htm">In John 3:5, what does being born of water and the Spirit mean, and is there historical proof that first-century listeners understood this uniquely? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/john/3.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(2) By night.--This has impressed itself upon the writer's mind, so that it becomes part of the description of Nicodemus in <a href="/john/19-39.htm" title="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</a>, and in some MSS. in <a href="/john/7-50.htm" title="Nicodemus said to them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)">John 7:50</a>. We have to think of him as having heard the answer of the messengers sent to the Baptist (<a href="/john/1-20.htm" title="And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ.">John 1:20</a> et seq.), as present at the cleansing of the Temple, as the witness of miracles in Jerusalem, as by these means convinced that this Teacher had a message from God, and resolved to hear it. But the Sanhedrin had officially taken a hostile position, and an individual member of it dare not openly take any other. His own conviction is expressed by his coming to Jesus at all; his fear of public opinion and of the possible exclusion from the synagogue by his coming at night. (Comp. <a href="/context/john/12-42.htm" title="Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:">John 12:42-43</a>.)Rabbi.--The customary title of reverence for a teacher (comp. Note on <a href="/john/1-38.htm" title="Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, What seek you? They said to him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwell you?">John 1:38</a>), but given here by a technically trained Rabbi to One who had no formal title to it (<a href="/john/7-15.htm" title="And the Jews marveled, saying, How knows this man letters, having never learned?">John 7:15</a>). . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/john/3.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - This man came to him by night, and said unto him. To suppose, with many commentators (after Augustine), that the night is here symbolic of the mental condition of the man, is far-fetched. Thoma, here intent on his principle of the fabricated character of the Gospel, compares this to King Saul (Paul's ancestor!) going by night to Samuel - a type of Christ! There is more probability that the night of the Last Supper was in the mind of John, and that these two nights, the one at the beginning, the other at the close of the ministry of Jesus - nights of extraordinary significance - were impressed ineffaceably on his memory, and, to some extent, contrasted with each other. Nicodemus did not fear the Lord or his disciples, but his own colleagues, whose excitement had already betrayed their sentiments. Without "believing on his Name," they had come to some conclusions, and Nicodemus with them. Rabbi, said he, we know. He does not conceal a common sentiment at that moment agitating his own class in society, and he bestows the honorific title of Rabbi, "my Master," which, as coming from a learned doctor to a humble peasant, was a remarkable testimony to the effect Jesus had indirectly exerted beyond the circle of his immediate hearers: that thou art a Teacher come from God. The phrase, ἀπὸ Θεοῦ, precedes "the Teacher come." Certainly it yields to Jesus great dignity. He is God-sent, like the prophets of old. He has a right to teach. His doctorate is a heavenly diploma; and Nicodemus draws a wiser conclusion than the many did who, in some sense, believed on his Name. They were rushing heedlessly forward to further conclusions. Nicodemus saw a grand authority as a Teacher of men, a Heaven-sent Messenger, in the Lord Jesus, and he came to this conclusion from the settled persuasion that no man can do the signs which thou art performing, if God be not with him. This confession was true, indicating candid and honest inquiry and a teachable mind. It was the very truth which Peter in subsequent times gave to Cornelius as explanation of the healing and beneficent powers of Jesus. Christ knew the whole man, understood at once the honesty of the inquiry, and did entrust himself to Nicodemus. There was more faith in this modest inquiry, in this honest scepticism of his own position, than in the clamours and hosannas of the fickle crowd. <a href="/commentaries/john/3-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>He οὗτος (houtos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. came ἦλθεν (ēlthen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2064.htm">Strong's 2064: </a> To come, go. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. [Jesus] αὐτὸν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. at night νυκτὸς (nyktos) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3571.htm">Strong's 3571: </a> The night, night-time. A primary word; 'night'. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. said, εἶπεν (eipen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2036.htm">Strong's 2036: </a> Answer, bid, bring word, command. A primary verb; to speak or say. “Rabbi, Ῥαββί (Rhabbi) Noun - Vocative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4461.htm">Strong's 4461: </a> Of Hebrew origin; my master, i.e Rabbi, as an official title of honor. we know οἴδαμεν (oidamen) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> To know, remember, appreciate. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. [You are] a teacher διδάσκαλος (didaskalos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1320.htm">Strong's 1320: </a> A teacher, master. From didasko; an instructor. who has come ἐλήλυθας (elēlythas) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2064.htm">Strong's 2064: </a> To come, go. from ἀπὸ (apo) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_575.htm">Strong's 575: </a> From, away from. A primary particle; 'off, ' i.e. Away, in various senses. God. Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. no one οὐδεὶς (oudeis) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3762.htm">Strong's 3762: </a> No one, none, nothing. could δύναται (dynatai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1410.htm">Strong's 1410: </a> (a) I am powerful, have (the) power, (b) I am able, I can. Of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible. perform ποιεῖν (poiein) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_4160.htm">Strong's 4160: </a> (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do. [the] ταῦτα (tauta) Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. signs σημεῖα (sēmeia) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4592.htm">Strong's 4592: </a> Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of semaino; an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally. You σὺ (sy) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. are doing ποιεῖς (poieis) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4160.htm">Strong's 4160: </a> (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do. if ἐὰν (ean) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1437.htm">Strong's 1437: </a> If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc. God Θεὸς (Theos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. were ᾖ (ē) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. not μὴ (mē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3361.htm">Strong's 3361: </a> Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether. with μετ’ (met’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_3326.htm">Strong's 3326: </a> (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. him.? αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/john/3-2.htm">John 3:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/john/3-2.htm">NT Gospels: John 3:2 The same came to him by night (Jhn Jo Jn) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/john/3-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="John 3:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="John 3:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/john/3-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="John 3:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="John 3:3" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>