Luke 23:51

(The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) [he was] of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

(The same {G3778} had {G4784} not {G3756} consented {G4784}{G2258} to the counsel {G1012} and {G2532} deed {G4234} of them {G846};) he was of {G575} Arimathaea {G707}, a city {G4172} of the Jews {G2453}:{G2532} who {G3739} also {G2532} himself {G846} waited for {G4327} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}.

and he had not been in agreement with either the Sanhedrin’s motivation or their action. He came from the town of Ramatayim, a town of the Judeans; and he looked forward to the Kingdom of God.

who had not consented to their decision or action. He was from the Judean town of Arimathea, and was waiting for the kingdom of God.

(he had not consented to their counsel and deed), a man of Arimathæa, a city of the Jews, who was looking for the kingdom of God:

Commentary

Luke 23:51 introduces Joseph of Arimathaea, a pivotal figure in the narrative of Jesus' crucifixion and burial. This verse highlights his unique position and character, setting the stage for his courageous act of providing a tomb for Jesus' body.

Context and Character

This verse follows the account of Jesus' death and immediately precedes the description of His burial. Joseph is identified as a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, as noted in the preceding verse (Luke 23:50). Crucially, Luke emphasizes that Joseph "had not consented to the counsel and deed of them," meaning he did not agree with the Sanhedrin's decision to condemn Jesus. This detail underscores his moral integrity and distinguishes him from the majority of his colleagues who sought Jesus' death.

Arimathaea is described as "a city of the Jews," though its exact location is debated among scholars. Joseph's background as a respected council member from this city adds weight to his later actions. The parallel accounts in Matthew 27:57-60, Mark 15:43-46, and John 19:38-42 further confirm his role and character, with John noting he was a "disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews."

Key Themes and Messages

  • Integrity Amidst Injustice: Joseph's refusal to endorse the Sanhedrin's unjust verdict demonstrates remarkable integrity and moral courage, standing against the tide of popular and institutional opinion.
  • Quiet Expectation of God's Kingdom: The phrase "who also himself waited for the kingdom of God" is central to understanding Joseph's character. This indicates a deep spiritual longing and anticipation for the Messiah's reign, aligning him with devout individuals like Simeon and Anna (Luke 2:25, Luke 2:38). This spiritual readiness motivated his actions.
  • Divine Providence through Unexpected Individuals: God often uses surprising individuals in critical moments. Joseph, a wealthy and influential member of the very council that condemned Jesus, becomes instrumental in fulfilling prophecy regarding Jesus' burial in a rich man's tomb (Isaiah 53:9).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "had not consented" is synkatatithemi, which implies active agreement or approval. Joseph's non-consent was not merely passive disagreement but a principled stand. The expression "waited for the kingdom of God" uses the Greek verb prosdexomai, meaning to receive, expect, or welcome. It conveys a sense of active anticipation and readiness for the arrival of God's rule, a central theme in Jesus' ministry (Luke 4:43).

Practical Application

Luke 23:51 offers several lessons for believers today:

  • Courage to Stand for Truth: Joseph's example encourages believers to uphold truth and justice, even when it means opposing powerful or popular sentiment.
  • Faith in Action: His quiet faith became publicly evident and impactful at a crucial time, reminding us that true discipleship often manifests in acts of service and courage when they are most needed.
  • Spiritual Preparedness: Joseph's active waiting for the kingdom of God highlights the importance of spiritual readiness and a focus on God's ultimate reign, influencing how we live our lives and make decisions.
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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

  • Luke 2:25 (5 votes)

    ¶ And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name [was] Simeon; and the same man [was] just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

  • Luke 2:38 (4 votes)

    And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

  • Genesis 37:21 (3 votes)

    And Reuben heard [it], and he delivered him out of their hands; and said, Let us not kill him.

  • Genesis 37:22 (3 votes)

    And Reuben said unto them, Shed no blood, [but] cast him into this pit that [is] in the wilderness, and lay no hand upon him; that he might rid him out of their hands, to deliver him to his father again.

  • Genesis 49:18 (3 votes)

    I have waited for thy salvation, O LORD.

  • Mark 15:43 (3 votes)

    Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.

  • Isaiah 8:12 (3 votes)

    Say ye not, A confederacy, to all [them to] whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid.