March 8. Secret Discipleship
J.R. Miller teaches that while secret discipleship may be understandable in certain historical contexts, true Christian commitment requires open and courageous confession of faith.
In this devotional sermon, J.R. Miller explores the story of Nicodemus as an example of secret discipleship and its limitations. He highlights how Jesus welcomed even hesitant seekers but stresses that true Christian faith requires open and courageous confession. Miller calls believers to move beyond timid faith and embrace bold discipleship in the light of Christ’s sacrifice.
Text
"Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. He came to Jesus at night . . ." John 3:1-2
It was better to come by night, than not to come at all — though we usually think that it showed timidity on the part of Nicodemus. We must remember, however, that Jesus did not rebuke him, nor did He refuse to accept even his secret discipleship. He seems to have received him with loving welcome, and to have taught him in the quiet way Nicodemus chose to come.
We must remember, too that the times then, were not as they are now. Christ had not yet died, nor had the Christian Church been established. Certainly, secret discipleship is not justifiable now, whatever excuse Nicodemus may have had for it in his time. We know too, that it was not satisfactory even in his case. We know that the time came, when he could no longer remain a secret friend. When Jesus was dead on His cross, and when His body, as that of a crucified malefactor, was about to be buried in dishonor among criminals — it is remarkable that the two men who came forward and rescued it from such ignominy and gave it honorable sepulcher — had both until that day been secret disciples. The death of Christ so touched their hearts and aroused their timid, hesitating love — that they could not longer continue secret disciples. The true love of their hearts could not be repressed — and they came forward and risked and dared all for Him, whom they had never before had courage openly to confess.
Secret discipleship is not satisfactory. It does not get the hearty approval of one\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction of Nicodemus as a secret disciple
- Context of coming to Jesus by night
- Jesus’ acceptance of secret discipleship
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II
- Historical context before Christ’s death and church establishment
- Limitations and issues with secret discipleship
- Necessity of open confession in the Christian era
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III
- Transformation of secret disciples after Christ’s death
- Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea’s public actions
- True love demands courageous and open faith
Key Quotes
“It was better to come by night, than not to come at all — though we usually think that it showed timidity on the part of Nicodemus.” — J.R. Miller
“Secret discipleship is not satisfactory. It does not get the hearty approval of one who truly loves Christ.” — J.R. Miller
“The true love of their hearts could not be repressed — and they came forward and risked and dared all for Him.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Reflect on any areas of hesitant or secret faith and seek to openly confess Christ.
- Recognize that true love for Jesus compels courageous action and public commitment.
- Be encouraged that Jesus welcomes seekers even in their timidity but calls for growth into bold discipleship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nicodemus come to Jesus at night?
Nicodemus came by night likely due to fear or timidity, but Jesus welcomed him without rebuke.
Is secret discipleship acceptable today?
No, the sermon emphasizes that secret discipleship is not justifiable in the current Christian context.
What changed for Nicodemus after Jesus’ death?
Nicodemus was moved by Jesus’ death to openly confess his faith and act courageously.
What does secret discipleship reveal about faith?
It shows a hesitant or timid love that is insufficient for true Christian commitment.
How does the sermon define true discipleship?
True discipleship involves open, courageous confession and risk for Christ.