Joseph of Arimathea

Joseph of Arimathea’s story is told in Matthew 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42

Who is Joseph of Arimathea?

  1. Identity: Joseph was a wealthy man from a place called Arimathea, which is likely a town in Judea.
  2. Religious Affiliation: A respected member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council.
  3. Occupation: Specifics are unclear, but his wealth suggests that he was involved in a prosperous trade or occupation.
  4. Connection to Jesus: Joseph is best known for providing the tomb where Jesus was laid after his crucifixion.

Strengths and Accomplishments

  1. Wealthy but Humble: Unlike some other wealthy characters in the Bible, Joseph uses his resources for good—specifically for the burial of Jesus.
  2. Courageous: Despite the potential risk to his reputation and status, Joseph goes to Pilate to request Jesus’ body.
  3. Discreetly Faithful: Although he was a secret disciple of Jesus, his actions during a crucial time speak louder than public declarations of faith.
  4. Respected: Being part of the Sanhedrin, Joseph was likely held in high esteem, which also makes his actions even more impactful.
  5. Proper Burial for Jesus: Provides a dignified burial for Jesus, fulfilling Jewish burial customs.

Weaknesses and Mistakes

  1. Secret Discipleship: Kept his faith in Jesus a secret for fear of the Jews, which means he wasn’t outspoken about his beliefs.
  2. Associated with the Sanhedrin: While not explicitly a mistake, his association with the council that plotted against Jesus can be viewed in a negative light.

Lessons from His Life

  1. Courage Under Pressure: Joseph teaches us that it’s never too late to stand up for what’s right.
  2. The Impact of Discreet Faithfulness: Even if your faith is a secret, your actions can still serve God’s greater plan.
  3. Use of Resources: Shows us the power and responsibility of using one’s resources for good, especially in the service of God.
  4. Faith Over Fear: Despite the risks involved, his faith compelled him to act. A lesson on how faith should overcome fear.

Key Verses (NIV)

  1. Matthew 27:57-60 – “As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock.”
  2. Mark 15:43 – “Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body.”
  3. John 19:38 – “Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders.”