When we think of the crucifixion story, we often stop at the cross and then fast-forward to the resurrection. But there's a key figure between those moments whose courage and sacrifice are easy to miss.
Take, for example, Joseph of Arimathea. Each Gospel mentions him only once—in the passages on Jesus' burial, but with Bible Gateway Plus, you can uncover deeper meaning around this man and his sacrifice through trusted commentaries and character studies. The New International Encyclopedia of Bible Characters offers this insight:
"Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy member of the Jewish Sanhedrin who became a disciple of Jesus, then buried the body of the crucified Christ in his own personal tomb."
"This 'good and upright man' (Luke 23:50) overcame his fear (John 19:38), declared himself as a disciple of Christ by asking Pontius Pilate for Jesus' body... These circumstances fulfilled the prophecy that the Messiah would be 'with the rich in his death' (Is. 53:9)."
But the cost of this act went deeper than generosity or courage. The Believer's Bible Commentary adds an even deeper layer of meaning:
"In burying the body of Jesus, Joseph also buried himself, in a sense. That act separated him forever from the nation that crucified the Lord of life and glory. He would never be a part of Judaism again, but would live in moral separation from it and testify against it."
At a time when even Jesus' closest followers had scattered, Joseph—wealthy, powerful, and respected—stepped forward. He aligned himself with a crucified Messiah, with no guarantee of what came next.
His sacrifice invites us to consider: would we have the courage to step forward as he did? Are we willing to follow Jesus boldly, even when it costs us?
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