Character Study Of Joseph Of Arimathea Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA – BURIED JESUS IN HIS TOMB

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 27:57-60

"When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered." – Matthew 27:57-58

Supporting Texts: Mark 15:43-46, Luke 23:50-53, John 19:38-42

INTRODUCTION:

Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy and influential member of the Jewish Sanhedrin. Though he was a secret disciple of Jesus, he boldly stepped forward to claim Jesus’ body and provide a proper burial in his own tomb. His act of devotion fulfilled prophecy and demonstrated true discipleship. His life teaches us about courage, faith, and using our resources for God’s kingdom.

1. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA WAS A SECRET DISCIPLE OF JESUS

a) He was a member of the Sanhedrin (Mark 15:43)

He belonged to the Jewish ruling council.

b) He believed in Jesus but feared public association (John 19:38)

He followed Jesus secretly due to fear of the Jews.

c) Many struggle to openly declare their faith (John 12:42-43)

Some fear rejection from society.

d) True discipleship requires boldness (Matthew 10:32-33)

Jesus calls us to publicly confess Him.

e) Biblical Example: Nicodemus also followed Jesus secretly (John 3:1-2).

2. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA DISPLAYED GREAT COURAGE

a) He boldly went to Pilate to request Jesus’ body (Mark 15:43)

This was a risky move as a Sanhedrin member.

b) He identified with Jesus when others had abandoned Him (Luke 23:50-52)

Most disciples fled after Jesus’ crucifixion.

c) Bold faith brings divine rewards (Joshua 1:9)

God blesses those who take a stand for Him.

d) Fear must not stop us from fulfilling God’s will (2 Timothy 1:7)

God has given us a spirit of boldness.

e) Biblical Example: Esther risked her life for her people (Esther 4:16).

3. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA HONOURED JESUS WITH HIS RESOURCES

a) He provided his own new tomb for Jesus (Matthew 27:60)

He gave the best he had.

b) He fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy (Isaiah 53:9)

Jesus was buried with the rich.

c) God expects us to use our wealth for His kingdom (Proverbs 3:9-10)

Honour the Lord with your substance.

d) True devotion to Christ involves giving (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Giving is an expression of love.

e) Biblical Example: The woman with the alabaster box also gave sacrificially (Mark 14:3).

4. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA’S ACT SHOWS GOD’S DIVINE TIMING

a) His role was part of God’s prophetic plan (John 19:40-42)

Jesus’ burial was divinely orchestrated.

b) God raises people at the right time (Esther 4:14)

Joseph’s courage came at a crucial moment.

c) There is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

God’s purpose unfolds in His timing.

d) God uses unexpected people for His plans (1 Corinthians 1:27-29)

Joseph was not one of the twelve disciples, yet God used him.

e) Biblical Example: Cyrus, a Persian king, was also used by God (Isaiah 45:1).

5. JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA’S LIFE TEACHES US TRUE DISCIPLESHIP

a) Faith must be demonstrated in action (James 2:17)

Joseph acted when it mattered most.

b) Following Jesus requires sacrifice (Luke 9:23-24)

He gave up his personal tomb for Jesus.

c) God honours those who honour Him (1 Samuel 2:30)

His act was recorded in all four Gospels.

d) We must overcome fear to serve God fully (Romans 1:16)

Boldly standing for Christ is a mark of true faith.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham also made sacrifices for God (Genesis 22:1-14).

STRENGTHS OF JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA

a) He was a righteous and honourable man (Luke 23:50)

He was respected and godly.

b) He was a secret follower of Jesus (John 19:38)

Despite being in the Sanhedrin, he believed in Christ.

c) He showed courage at a critical moment (Mark 15:43)

He took a bold step when others were afraid.

d) He used his wealth for God's purpose (Matthew 27:60)

He generously provided his tomb.

e) He fulfilled prophecy unknowingly (Isaiah 53:9)

His actions were part of God’s divine plan.

WEAKNESSES OF JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA

a) He initially feared public association with Jesus (John 19:38)

He followed Jesus secretly for some time.

b) He hesitated before openly showing his faith (John 12:42-43)

Fear of the Jews delayed his public stand.

c) He waited until Jesus’ death to act (Mark 15:43)

He could have supported Jesus earlier.

d) He was influenced by the Jewish council (Luke 23:50-51)

Though he disagreed with Jesus’ crucifixion, he did not openly oppose it.

e) His faith was not as bold as the apostles' (Acts 4:13-20)

Unlike Peter and John, he feared persecution.

LESSONS TO LEARN FROM THE LIFE OF JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA

a) Faith must move from secrecy to boldness (Mark 8:38)

We must stand for Jesus openly.

b) God uses people in high positions for His purpose (Proverbs 21:1)