Luke 23:50

¶ And, behold, [there was] a man named Joseph, a counsellor; [and he was] a good man, and a just:

And {G2532}, behold {G2400}, there was a man {G435} named {G3686} Joseph {G2501}, a counsellor {G1010}; and he was a good {G5225}{G18} man {G435}, and {G2532} a just {G1342}:

There was a man named Yosef, a member of the Sanhedrin. He was a good man, a tzaddik;

Now there was a Council member named Joseph, a good and righteous man,

And behold, a man named Joseph, who was a councillor, a good and righteous man

Commentary

Luke 23:50 introduces us to a pivotal figure in the burial of Jesus: Joseph of Arimathea. This verse immediately follows the dramatic events of the crucifixion, setting the stage for the solemn act of interring Christ's body. The description of Joseph as "a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just" paints a picture of a man of integrity and influence, whose actions were crucial at this critical moment.

Context

This verse appears at the very end of Jesus' earthly life, just after His death on the cross (Luke 23:46). The Jewish custom, and the approaching Sabbath (which began at sundown on Friday), necessitated that bodies not remain on the cross overnight. Joseph's appearance is therefore timely and providential. His title, "counsellor," indicates he was a member of the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish judicial and legislative body. This makes his character description even more significant, as many of his colleagues had condemned Jesus.

Key Themes

  • Divine Providence: Even in the darkest hour of Jesus' death, God had prepared a man of means and position to ensure a proper burial, fulfilling prophecy.
  • Courageous Discipleship: Although described in John's Gospel as a secret disciple for fear of the Jews, Joseph now steps forward boldly, risking his reputation and position by associating himself with a crucified "criminal."
  • Integrity Amidst Corruption: Joseph stands out as "a good man, and a just" within a council that had actively sought Jesus' death. His character testifies to the fact that not all within the religious establishment were complicit in the injustice.
  • Respect for the Dead: Joseph's actions underscore the ancient and biblical importance of reverent burial, even for those condemned.

Linguistic Insights

  • The term "counsellor" translates the Greek word boulētēs (βουλευτής), which specifically refers to a member of the Sanhedrin. This highlights Joseph's high social standing and political influence.
  • "Good" is from the Greek agathos (ἀγαθός), denoting inherent moral excellence and uprightness.
  • "Just" comes from dikaios (δίκαιος), signifying righteousness, adherence to divine law, and equity. These two terms together powerfully describe Joseph's sterling character.

Related Scriptures

Joseph of Arimathea is mentioned in all four Gospels, providing a harmonized account of his role:

Practical Application

Joseph's example encourages believers to act on their faith, even when it requires personal risk or goes against prevailing opinions. His integrity in a corrupt environment reminds us that God can use individuals in unexpected places to accomplish His purposes. It also highlights the importance of courageously identifying with Christ, especially in moments of great need or opposition.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • John 19:38

    ¶ And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave [him] leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.

  • John 19:42

    There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation [day]; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.

  • Acts 10:22

    And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee.

  • Acts 11:24

    For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

  • Mark 15:42

    ¶ And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,

  • Mark 15:47

    And Mary Magdalene and Mary [the mother] of Joses beheld where he was laid.

  • Matthew 27:57

    ¶ When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:
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