They Could NotExemple

THEY COULD NOT BUT EXPRESS THEIR SINCERE DEVOTION TO THE HOLY ONE.

At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had even been laid. John 19: 41

Because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay. Psalm 16:10

Customarily, the bodies of criminals were left on their crosses to be eaten by the birds and the beasts. Here, Joseph of Arimathea wanted to see a proper burial for Jesus, done with dignity. (John 19:38).

Let’s talk about Joseph of Arimathea a bit:

1. He is mentioned in all four gospels. He played an important role in the burial of Jesus.
2. A member of Sanhedrin. A good and righteous man, wealthy too.
3. He was a secret disciple of Jesus, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body, boldly. (Mark 15: 43)
4. While all other disciples fled away, Joseph of Arimathea had guts to bring Jesus’ body down from the cross.
5. He put Jesus’ in his own tomb. Matthew 27:60 says that the tomb belonged to Joseph of Arimathea himself.

“Joseph and Nicodemus both illustrate the dreadful truth that it is hard for them that have riches to enter into the kingdom of God; but they also show us that when they do enter, they frequently excel”. - CH Spurgeon.

Joseph of Arimathea acted and made his faith public, regardless of the consequences. He probably would have said ‘I’m not turning back’. God will place us in the right position, in the right place and in the right time, to stand for him. But are we ready?

Take away:

What’s your stand?  Stand up for truth, No turning back.

How can you overcome your fear? Have faith in God and see miracles happen.

Will you give your best to Jesus? In spite of your settings, give your best to Jesus.

He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. John 19: 39- 40

THEY COULD NOT BUT EXPRESS THEIR SINCERE DEVOTION TO THE HOLY ONE.