Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent Council member who himself was waiting for the kingdom of God, boldly went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus. Joseph of ArimatheaJoseph of Arimathea is introduced as a significant figure in the burial of Jesus. His name suggests he hailed from Arimathea, a town of uncertain location, possibly identified with Ramathaim-Zophim in the hill country of Ephraim. Joseph is described in the Gospels as a respected member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council, which adds a layer of complexity to his character, as he was part of the group that condemned Jesus. However, his actions demonstrate a courageous departure from the council's decision, indicating his personal conviction and faith. The name "Joseph" itself, meaning "He will add" in Hebrew, may symbolize the addition of a new chapter in the unfolding account of Jesus' death and resurrection. a prominent Council member
This phrase highlights Joseph's status and influence within the Jewish community. As a member of the Sanhedrin, he held a position of authority and respect. The Greek term used here, "euschēmōn," implies not only prominence but also a sense of honor and integrity. Joseph's decision to approach Pilate and request Jesus' body reflects a bold and risky move, as it could have jeopardized his standing among his peers. His actions suggest a deep reverence for Jesus and a willingness to act according to his beliefs, even at personal cost. who himself was waiting for the kingdom of God
This phrase reveals Joseph's spiritual anticipation and hope. The "kingdom of God" was a central theme in Jesus' teaching, representing God's sovereign rule and the fulfillment of His promises. Joseph's expectation of the kingdom indicates that he was a devout Jew, looking forward to the messianic age. His faith in the coming kingdom aligns him with the followers of Jesus, who believed that Jesus' life and ministry were the inauguration of this divine reign. This expectation may have motivated Joseph to honor Jesus in death, recognizing Him as the Messiah. boldly went to Pilate
Joseph's approach to Pilate is described as "bold," underscoring the courage required for such an action. The Greek word "tolmaō" conveys a sense of daring and confidence. Pilate, the Roman governor, had the authority to grant or deny requests regarding the bodies of the crucified. By going to Pilate, Joseph risked associating himself with a condemned criminal, which could have led to social and political repercussions. His boldness is a testament to his commitment to Jesus and his desire to ensure that Jesus received a proper burial. to ask for the body of Jesus
This request is significant both legally and theologically. Legally, Roman custom often left crucified bodies unburied as a deterrent to crime, but Jewish law required burial, even for executed criminals, before sundown. Joseph's request aligns with Jewish customs and demonstrates his respect for the law. Theologically, the burial of Jesus is a crucial element of the Gospel narrative, fulfilling prophecies such as Isaiah 53:9, which speaks of the Messiah being with the rich in His death. Joseph's actions ensure that Jesus' body is treated with dignity, setting the stage for the resurrection. Persons / Places / Events 1. Joseph of ArimatheaA respected member of the Jewish council (Sanhedrin) who was secretly a disciple of Jesus. He is noted for his courage in requesting Jesus' body from Pilate. 2. ArimatheaA town in Judea, traditionally identified as the birthplace of Joseph. Its exact location is uncertain, but it is significant as the home of this notable figure. 3. The SanhedrinThe Jewish ruling council, which was involved in the trial and condemnation of Jesus. Joseph's membership in this group highlights his influential status. 4. PilateThe Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus. Joseph approached him to request Jesus' body, an act that required boldness given the political and social climate. 5. The Kingdom of GodA central theme in Jesus' teaching, representing God's sovereign rule. Joseph's anticipation of this kingdom indicates his faith and hope in Jesus' message. Teaching Points Courage in FaithJoseph's boldness in approaching Pilate demonstrates the courage required to stand for Christ, even when it may lead to personal risk or loss. Discipleship in SecretJoseph's initial secret discipleship challenges us to consider the balance between wisdom and boldness in our public witness for Christ. Hope in the KingdomJoseph's anticipation of the kingdom of God encourages believers to live with a forward-looking hope, trusting in God's ultimate plan and promises. The Role of the WealthyJoseph's use of his resources for Jesus' burial illustrates how God can use individuals of means to fulfill His purposes, encouraging stewardship and generosity. Fulfillment of ProphecyJoseph's actions fulfill Old Testament prophecy, reinforcing the reliability of Scripture and God's sovereign orchestration of events. Bible Study Questions 1. What can we learn from Joseph of Arimathea's courage in asking Pilate for Jesus' body, and how can we apply this to situations where our faith might be challenged? 2. How does Joseph's secret discipleship before Jesus' death speak to the challenges of living out our faith in environments that may be hostile to Christianity? 3. In what ways does Joseph's anticipation of the kingdom of God inspire us to live with hope and expectation in our daily lives? 4. How can we, like Joseph, use our resources and influence to serve God's purposes, and what are some practical ways to do this in our communities? 5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Joseph's actions strengthen our faith in the reliability of Scripture, and how can we use this understanding to encourage others in their faith journey? Connections to Other Scriptures Matthew 27:57-60and Luke 23:50-53provide parallel accounts of Joseph's actions, emphasizing his righteousness and courage. John 19:38-42adds that Nicodemus assisted Joseph, highlighting the collaboration of secret disciples in Jesus' burial. Isaiah 53:9prophetically speaks of the Messiah being buried with the rich, which is fulfilled in Joseph's provision of his own tomb for Jesus. Acts 13:29references the burial of Jesus, affirming the historical reality of these events as part of the gospel message. People Alexander, Barabbas, Elias, Elijah, James, Jesus, Joseph, Joses, Mary, Pilate, Rufus, Salome, SimonPlaces Arimathea, Cyrene, Galilee, Golgotha, Jerusalem, Place of the SkullTopics Arimathaea, Arimathea, Arimathe'a, Awaiting, Beg, Begged, Body, Boldly, Council, Councillor, Counsellor, Counselor, Courage, Craved, Emboldened, Entered, Estate, Expectation, Fear, Gathered, Highly, Honorable, Honour, Honourable, Joseph, Kingdom, Member, Pilate, Prominent, Reign, Request, Respected, Responsible, Summoned, Waited, WaitingDictionary of Bible Themes Mark 15:43 2376 kingdom of God, coming
5977 waiting
7565 Sanhedrin
8202 boldness
8678 waiting on God Mark 15:42-43 4933 evening Mark 15:42-46 4366 stones
8811 riches, attitudes to Mark 15:43-46 2530 Christ, death of
5503 rich, the
7110 body of Christ Library Simon the Cyrenian
'And they compel one Simon, a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear His Cross.'--Mark xv. 21. How little these soldiers knew that they were making this man immortal! What a strange fate that is which has befallen chose persons in the Gospel narrative, who for an instant came into contact with Jesus Christ. Like ships passing athwart the white ghostlike splendour of moonlight on the sea, they gleam silvery pure for a moment as they cross its …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureChrist and Pilate: the True King and his Counterfeit
'And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. 2. And Pilate asked Him, Art Thou the King of the Jews? And He answering said unto him, Thou sayest it. 3. And the chief priests accused Him of many things: but He answered nothing. 4. And Pilate asked Him again, saying, Answerest Thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against Thee. 6. But Jesus yet …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Death which Gives Life
'And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear His cross. 22. And they bring Him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. 23. And they gave Him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but He received it not. 24. And when they had crucified Him, they parted His garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take. 25. And it was the third hour, and they crucified Him. 26. And the superscription …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Dying Saviour Our Example.
(On Good Friday.) TEXT: MARK xv. 34-41. HEAVENLY Father! On all who are assembling to day to commemorate the death of the Holy One, in whom Thou wast well pleased, look graciously down! Let not one go away from the cross of Thy Well-beloved without exclaiming, with new, living faith, Truly this was the Son of God! Let not one wipe away his tears of emotion until the heartfelt desire has taken possession of him that his end may be like that of this righteous One! Let not the feeling of holy reverence …
Friedrich Schleiermacher—Selected Sermons of Schleiermacher The Centurion at the Cross.
MATT. XXVII. 54. Comp. MARK XV. 39. "Now, when the centurion, and they that were with him watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying: Truly this was the [a] Son of God." LUKE XXIII. 47. "Now, when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying: Certainly this was a righteous man." Note.--The centurion here spoken of is the one who, according to Roman custom, presided over the execution (hence called by Seneca centurio supplicio præpositus; …
Philip Schaff—The Person of Christ Joseph of Arimathea
BY REV. ALFRED ROWLAND, D.D.. LL.B. "Joseph of Arimathea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God."--MARK xv. 43. The crucifixion of our Lord produced strange and startling effects in moral experience, as well as in the physical world. The veil of the Temple was rent from top to bottom as if a hand from heaven had torn it, in order to teach men that the ancient ritual was done with. Darkness covered the earth, suggesting to thoughtful minds the guilt of the world and …
George Milligan—Men of the Bible; Some Lesser-Known "Himself He could not Save. " --Mark xv. 31
"Himself He could not save."--Mark xv. 31. "He saved others," scorners cried, Beholding Jesus crucified; "Is this the Son of God with power? Lo, in His own afflictive hour, Himself he cannot save." He was the Son of God with power, He "came unto that very hour;" I'll joy in His reproach and shame, "He savest others;" I'll exclaim, "Himself He could not save." His agony and bloody sweat, His cross and passion paid my debt; He saved others when he fell, Yet,--who the mystery can tell? Himself, He …
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns Whether Christ was Buried in a Becoming Manner?
Objection 1: It would seem that Christ was buried in an unbecoming manner. For His burial should be in keeping with His death. But Christ underwent a most shameful death, according to Wis. 2:20: "Let us condemn Him to a most shameful death." It seems therefore unbecoming for honorable burial to be accorded to Christ, inasmuch as He was buried by men of position---namely, by Joseph of Arimathea, who was "a noble counselor," to use Mark's expression (Mk. 15:43), and by Nicodemus, who was "a ruler of …
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica H. The Crucifixion. Ch. 23:26-38
26 And when they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country, and laid on him the cross, to bear it after Jesus. 27 And there followed him a great multitude of the people, and of women who bewailed and lamented him. 28 But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. 29 For behold, the days are coming, in which they shall say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the …
Charles R. Erdman—The Gospel of Luke, An Exposition Pilate
"And straightway in the morning the chief priests with the elders and scribes, and the whole council, held a consultation, and bound Jesus, and carried Him away, and delivered Him up to Pilate." ". . . And they lead Him out to crucify Him." MARK 15:1-20 (R.V.) WITH morning came the formal assembly, which St. Mark dismisses in a single verse. It was indeed a disgraceful mockery. Before the trial began its members had prejudged the case, passed sentence by anticipation, and abandoned Jesus, as one …
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark Christ Crucified
"And they compel one passing by, Simon of Cyrene, coming from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to go with them, that he might bear His cross. And they bring Him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull. And they offered Him wine mingled with myrrh: but He received it not. And they crucify Him, and part His garments among them, casting lots upon them, what each should take. And it was the third hour, and they crucified Him. And the superscription of …
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark The Death of Jesus
"And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me? And some of them that stood by, when they heard it, said, Behold, He calleth Elijah. And one ran, and filling a sponge full of vinegar, put it on a reed, and gave Him to drink, saying, Let be; let us see whether Elijah cometh to take Him down. And Jesus …
G. A. Chadwick—The Gospel of St. Mark Part 1 Christ's Humiliation, Exaltation, and Triumph. Phil. 2:8,9; Mark 15:20,24,29; Col. 2:15
Christ's humiliation, exaltation, and triumph. Phil. 2:8,9; Mark 15:20,24,29; Col. 2:15. The mighty frame of glorious grace, That brightest monument of praise That e'er the God of love designed, Employs and fills my lab'ring mind. Begin, my soul, the heav'nly song, A burden for an angel's tongue: When Gabriel sounds these awful things, He tunes and summons all his stungs. Proclaim inimitable love: Jesus, the Lord of worlds above, Puts off the beams of bright array, And veils the God in mortal …
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts The Fourth Word
"Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani."--ST. MATT. XXVII. 46; ST. MARK XV. 34. There are three peculiar and distinguishing features of this fourth word which our Saviour uttered from His Cross. 1. It is the only one of the Seven which finds a place in the earliest record of our Lord's life, contained in the matter common to St. Matthew and St. Mark. 2. It is the only one which has been preserved to us in the original Aramaic, in the very syllables which were formed by the lips of Christ. 3. It is the …
J. H. Beibitz—Gloria Crucis The Shortest of the Seven Cries
As these seven sayings were so faithfully recorded, we do not wonder that they have frequently been the subject of devout meditation. Fathers and confessors, preachers and divines have delighted to dwell upon every syllable of these matchless cries. These solemn sentences have shone like the seven golden candlesticks or the seven stars of the Apocalypse, and have lighted multitudes of men to him who spake them. Thoughtful men have drawn a wealth of meaning from them, and in so doing have arranged …
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 24: 1878 Third Stage of Jewish Trial. Jesus Formally Condemned by the Sanhedrin and Led to Pilate.
(Jerusalem. Friday After Dawn.) ^A Matt. XXVII. 1, 2; ^B Mark XV. 1; ^C Luke XXII. 66-23:1; ^D John XVIII. 28. ^a 1 Now when morning was come, ^c 66 And as soon as it was day, ^b straightway ^c the assembly of the elders of the people was gathered together, both chief priests and scribes; and they led him away into their council, ^a all the chief priests and { ^b with} the elders ^a of the people ^b and scribes, and the whole council, held a consultation, and ^a took counsel against Jesus to put …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel First Stage of the Roman Trial. Jesus Before Pilate for the First Time.
(Jerusalem. Early Friday Morning.) ^A Matt. XXVII. 11-14; ^B Mark XV. 2-5; ^C Luke XXIII. 2-5; ^D John XVIII. 28-38. ^d and they themselves entered not into the Praetorium, that they might not be defiled, but might eat the passover. [See p. 641.] 29 Pilate therefore went out unto them, and saith, What accusation bring ye against this man? 30 They answered and said unto him, If this man were not an evildoer, we should not have delivered him up unto thee. [The Jewish rulers first attempt to induce …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel Third Stage of the Roman Trial. Pilate Reluctantly Sentences Him to Crucifixion.
(Friday. Toward Sunrise.) ^A Matt. XXVII. 15-30; ^B Mark XV. 6-19; ^C Luke XXIII. 13-25; ^D John XVIII. 39-XIX 16. ^a 15 Now at the feast [the passover and unleavened bread] the governor was wont { ^b used to} release unto them ^a the multitude one prisoner, whom they would. { ^b whom they asked of him.} [No one knows when or by whom this custom was introduced, but similar customs were not unknown elsewhere, both the Greeks and Romans being wont to bestow special honor upon certain occasions by releasing …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Crucifixion.
Subdivision A. On the Way to the Cross. (Within and Without Jerusalem. Friday Morning.) ^A Matt. XXVII. 31-34; ^B Mark XV. 20-23; ^C Luke XXIII. 26-33; ^D John XIX. 17. ^a 31 And when they had mocked him, they took off from him the ^b purple, ^a robe, and put on him his garments [This ended the mockery, which seems to have been begun in a state of levity, but which ended in gross indecency and violence. When we think of him who endured it all, we can not contemplate the scene without a shudder. Who …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel The Morning of Good Friday.
The pale grey light had passed into that of early morning, when the Sanhedrists once more assembled in the Palace of Caiaphas. [5969] A comparison with the terms in which they who had formed the gathering of the previous night are described will convey the impression, that the number of those present was now increased, and that they who now came belonged to the wisest and most influential of the Council. It is not unreasonable to suppose, that some who would not take part in deliberations which were …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Crucified, Dead, and Buried. '
It matters little as regards their guilt, whether, pressing the language of St. John, [6034] we are to understand that Pilate delivered Jesus to the Jews to be crucified, or, as we rather infer, to his own soldiers. This was the common practice, and it accords both with the Governor's former taunt to the Jews, [6035] and with the after-notice of the Synoptists. They, to whom He was delivered,' led Him away to be crucified:' and they who so led Him forth compelled' the Cyrenian Simon to bear the Cross. …
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Death of Jesus.
Although the real motive for the death of Jesus was entirely religious, his enemies had succeeded, in the judgment-hall, in representing him as guilty of treason against the state; they could not have obtained from the sceptical Pilate a condemnation simply on the ground of heterodoxy. Consistently with this idea, the priests demanded, through the people, the crucifixion of Jesus. This punishment was not Jewish in its origin; if the condemnation of Jesus had been purely Mosaic, he would have been …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus Links Mark 15:43 NIVMark 15:43 NLTMark 15:43 ESVMark 15:43 NASBMark 15:43 KJV
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