John 3:2
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.
John 3:2 · King James Version
Meaning
When the Pharisee Nicodemus came to Jesus by night, he acknowledged Jesus as a teacher come from God. Nicodemus recognized that Jesus's miracles were evidence of God's presence with him. This interaction highlights the belief that Jesus was not just a regular teacher, but someone who performed extraordinary miracles that could only be attributed to the power of God. Nicodemus's acknowledgment of Jesus's divine origin foreshadows the eventual revelation of Jesus as the Son of God. This verse serves as a testament to the recognition of Jesus's authority and divinity, setting the stage for further discussions about spiritual matters and the kingdom of God in the following verses.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, approaches Jesus in secret, acknowledging Him as a teacher who has come from God. The word 'Rabbi' used by Nicodemus means 'master' or 'teacher,' indicating his respect for Jesus and his recognition of Jesus's authority. Nicodemus also acknowledges the miraculous signs that Jesus has performed, understanding that these acts could not be done without the presence of God. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights Nicodemus's initial understanding of Jesus's divinity and authority, laying the groundwork for future interactions between the two. This encounter sets the stage for Jesus to later reveal deeper truths to Nicodemus about spiritual rebirth and the kingdom of God. Through word studies on 'Rabbi' and 'miracles,' we can further understand the context and significance of Nicodemus's acknowledgment of Jesus's identity and power.
John 3:2 in other translations
American Standard Version
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.
World English Bible
The same came to him 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.”
Douay-Rheims
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.
Geneva Bible (1599)
This man came to Iesus by night, and sayd vnto him, Rabbi, we knowe ye thou art a teacher come from God: for no man could do these miracles that thou doest, except God were with him.