“There was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from … Arimathea and was waiting for the kingdom of God.”
Luke 23:50-51
Each of the four gospel writers includes Joseph of Arimathea in the Easter story. We learn that Joseph was rich, was a good and righteous man, was a prominent member of the Sanhedrin, was looking forward to the kingdom of God, and did not agree with sentencing Jesus to death. Because of his leadership position, he could not reveal his allegiance to Jesus, yet God would use him in the fulfillment of kingdom promises.
We can’t imagine the wrestling of Joseph’s soul as he straddled his proud Pharisee identity and the tug of the Spirit on his heart to investigate Jesus’ claims. Wondrously, Joseph and Nicodemus found each other as religious leaders, both of whose hearts were pricked by the God-man. Yet how powerless the two powerful men must have felt!
It was a daring act of love to ask Pilate for Jesus’ body, to offer his tomb for Him, and to, along with Nicodemus, prepare the body for burial. From here on, their private faith would be public. In their quiet devotion, these secret disciples shouted the good news of God’s love to the world.
We can’t imagine the wrestling of Joseph’s soul as he straddled his proud Pharisee identity and the tug of the Spirit on his heart to investigate Jesus’ claims. Wondrously, Joseph and Nicodemus found each other as religious leaders, both of whose hearts were pricked by the God-man. Yet how powerless the two powerful men must have felt!
It was a daring act of love to ask Pilate for Jesus’ body, to offer his tomb for Him, and to, along with Nicodemus, prepare the body for burial. From here on, their private faith would be public. In their quiet devotion, these secret disciples shouted the good news of God’s love to the world.
Scripture Focus
John 19:38-42
Insight
God used Joseph’s tomb for the most important apologetic of our faith. Without the empty tomb, we are “of all men most miserable”(1 Corinthians 15:19, KJV).
Bible In A Year
- Deuteronomy 13-14
- Psalm 86
- Acts 9
