How can we honor Jesus today, as Nicodemus did in John 19:39? Nicodemus’ Example in John 19:39 “Nicodemus, who had previously come to Jesus at night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.” (John 19:39) Why Nicodemus’ Action Honors Jesus • Took a public stand for the crucified Christ—no longer hiding his allegiance (Luke 9:26). • Brought an extravagant, costly gift—roughly seventy-five pounds of spices (2 Samuel 24:24). • Served the Lord’s physical body at great personal risk—identifying with Jesus when the authorities were hostile (John 7:13). • Acted swiftly; Jesus’ body needed burial before sundown. Obedience was timely, not postponed (John 14:15). Practical Ways to Honor Jesus Today 1. Bold Identification • Declare your faith openly in word and lifestyle (Romans 1:16). • Refuse to remain a “secret disciple” at school, work, or online. 2. Costly Generosity • Support Gospel ministry sacrificially—time, talents, finances (Philippians 4:18-19). • Meet tangible needs of believers and neighbors; it is service to Christ Himself (Matthew 25:40). 3. Reverence for His Body, the Church • Protect unity; speak well of fellow believers (Ephesians 4:3). • Use your spiritual gifts to build others up (1 Corinthians 12:27, 7). 4. Hands-On Service • Care for the hurting, sick, and marginalized as you would have tended Jesus’ wounded body (James 1:27). • Offer practical help—meals, visits, repairs—demonstrating Christ’s love (Hebrews 13:16). 5. Whole-Life Obedience • Present your body “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual service of worship.” (Romans 12:1) • Align decisions, entertainment, relationships, and speech with His commands (John 14:23). 6. Worship in Spirit and Truth • Gather faithfully with other believers, exalting the risen Lord (Hebrews 10:25). • Maintain private devotion—Scripture reading, meditation, praise (Psalm 119:11). 7. Proclaim the Saving Work of the Cross • Share the Gospel lovingly and clearly; Nicodemus honored Jesus at His death—honor Him by announcing His resurrection (1 Peter 3:15). • Pray for and engage those still “coming by night,” pointing them to the light of Christ (John 3:2; 8:12). Living the Lesson Like Nicodemus, we honor Jesus when our allegiance is public, our sacrifice is genuine, and our actions match our confession. In everyday choices, let devotion move from private curiosity to bold, costly love that unmistakably declares, “Jesus is worthy.” |
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