Matthew 27:57

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

When {G1161} the even {G3798} was come {G1096}, there came {G2064} a rich {G4145} man {G444} of {G575} Arimathaea {G707}, named {G5122} Joseph {G2501}, who {G3739} also {G2532} himself {G846} was {G3100} Jesus {G2424}' disciple {G3100}:

Towards evening, there came a wealthy man from Ramatayim named Yosef, who was himself a talmid of Yeshua.

When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, who himself was a disciple of Jesus.

And when even was come, there came a rich man from Arimathæa, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple:

Commentary

Matthew 27:57 introduces a pivotal character in the narrative of Jesus' burial: Joseph of Arimathaea. This verse marks the transition from the crucifixion scene to the solemn preparations for Jesus' interment, highlighting the divine providence at play even in the darkest hours.

Context

Following the traumatic events of Jesus' crucifixion, death, and the accompanying signs (Matthew 27:50-56), the day was drawing to a close. Jewish custom and law, particularly as outlined in Deuteronomy 21:22-23, required that bodies of executed criminals be buried before sundown, which marked the beginning of the Sabbath. This urgent need sets the stage for Joseph's appearance, ensuring Jesus' body would not remain on the cross overnight.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unexpected Courage: Joseph is identified as a "rich man" and a "disciple," yet until this moment, he appears to have been a secret follower. John 19:38 implies he was a secret disciple "for fear of the Jews." At a time when Jesus' public followers had largely scattered, Joseph steps forward boldly, risking his reputation and standing by associating with a condemned man.
  • Divine Provision: God sovereignly uses this wealthy and influential man to ensure Jesus receives a proper burial, fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah 53:9, which states He would be "with the rich in his death." Joseph's wealth enabled him to own the tomb in which Jesus was laid (Matthew 27:60).
  • Discipleship Revealed: This verse reveals that Jesus had disciples from all walks of life, even among the wealthy and prominent who might have had much to lose. Joseph's actions speak volumes about his genuine faith and commitment, even if it was previously understated.

Linguistic Insights

The term "disciple" (Greek: mathētēs) signifies a learner or follower. While Joseph had been a follower, his public demonstration of allegiance comes at the most critical and dangerous moment. His status as a "rich man of Arimathaea" underscores that faith is not limited by social standing or material wealth; indeed, it often challenges the worldly priorities associated with them.

Practical Application

Joseph of Arimathaea's story is a powerful reminder that:

  • Faith Requires Action: True discipleship often calls for stepping out in courage, even when it's unpopular or carries personal risk. Joseph's act of requesting Jesus' body (Matthew 27:58) was a profound act of devotion.
  • God Uses Unexpected People: We should never underestimate how God can use individuals from any background, with any resources, to accomplish His purposes. Joseph's wealth and influence, which might have previously kept him quiet, now served a crucial role in God's plan.
  • Courage Emerges in Crisis: Sometimes, the greatest demonstrations of faith and conviction occur during times of intense pressure or adversity. Joseph's bold move stands in stark contrast to the fear that gripped many others.
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Cross-References

  • John 19:38 (6 votes)

    ¶ 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 (6 votes)

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

  • Mark 15:42 (3 votes)

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

  • Mark 15:47 (3 votes)

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

  • Luke 23:50 (2 votes)

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

  • Luke 23:56 (2 votes)

    And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments; and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.

  • 1 Samuel 1:1 (-1 votes)

    ¶ Now there was a certain man of Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name [was] Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite: