The Life and Ministry of Jesus
After this, 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; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. John 19:38–39
The two men who handle the body of Jesus are both prominent men. Joseph of Arimathaea is a rich man, and Nicodemus is the ruler of the Jews who had come to Jesus by night. They were both secret disciples, but now they come out in the open for the first time. Let’s not be too critical of these men. They had stayed in the background but, now that the Lord’s disciples have all scattered like sheep and gone under cover, these two men come out in the open. 1
Personal Encouragement
Is your love for Jesus on open display for others to see? Are you a secret disciple of Jesus or have recent events caused you to become more bold, regardless of the personal consequences? How do you handle the Body of Christ? Are you a critical voice against other Christians, or do carefully handle His body with great love?
The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe. Proverbs 29:25
How you treat the Body of Christ, reveals a lot about your love for Jesus.
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for all You have done for me. I want to trust You more.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Gospels (John 11-21) (electronic ed., Vol. 39). Nashville.