Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus . . . . John 19:38
Joseph of Arimathea is mentioned four times in the Bible — once in each of the Gospels. In Matthew 27:57, we’re told he was a rich man from Arimathea who had become a disciple of Jesus. Mark 15:43 adds that he was also a prominent member of the Jewish counsel who nonetheless had to summon all his courage to approach Pilate for the body of Christ.
And John 19:38 tells us Joseph was a secret disciple for fear of the Jews. He and Nicodemus worked together to bury the body of the Lord Jesus Christ. Here was a wealthy and prominent man whose heart was afraid; but when push came to shove, he mustered his courage, trusted in God, and did what was right.
It’s often hard to stand for what’s right, but it helps to remember the example of Joseph of Arimathea. Most of all, it helps to remember that the tomb he loaned to Jesus is empty.
Easter says that you can put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there.
Because He is alive, we have the assurance of eternal life!
With much love for you and our risen LORD!
Pastor Mark
