Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who himself was one of them, asked,
Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus before and was one of them, asks a question.
This verse introduces a restrained challenge from within the group.
45Then the officers returned to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, “Why didn’t you bring Him in?” 46“Never has anyone spoken like this man!” the officers answered. 47“Have you also been deceived?” replied the Pharisees. 48“Have any of the rulers or Pharisees believed in Him? 49But this crowd that does not know the law— they are under a curse.” 50Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who himself was one of them, asked, 51“Does our law convict a man without first hearing from him to determine what he has done?” 52“Aren’t you also from Galilee?” they replied. “Look into it, and you will see that no prophet comes out of Galilee.” 53Then each went to his own home.