John 3:1 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

There was a man of the Pharisees, &c.— Nicodemus was a member of the great council, and, as some suppose, a ruler of a synagogue; for αρχων, the title here given him, is often used in this sense by the evangelists: compare Matthew 18:23 with Luke 8:41. Accordingly, John 3:10 on this very occasion, Jesus calls him a master, or teacher of Israel. He might possess both dignities, many of the members of the council being rulers of synagogues. It is however certain, that he was one of the council; for we are told so expressly, ch. John 7:50. This doctor had heard our Lord's miracles often mentioned, perhaps had seen some of them; and, like many of his countrymen, conceived some notions, that he whoperformed such things must be the Messiah: on the other hand, the meanness of our Lord's appearance occasioned scruples which he could not remove. In this state of doubtfulness he resolved to wait on Jesus, that by conversing with him personally, he might find out the truth. See the next note.