What does Joseph's courage in Matthew 27:59 teach us about faith in action? The Moment Described Matthew 27:59: “So Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth.” • Earlier that evening, “a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had become a disciple of Jesus” (v. 57) approached Pilate for permission to take Jesus’ body (v. 58). • Joseph’s request, his handling of the body, and the placement in his own new tomb (v. 60) all unfold under Roman authority and the hostile gaze of the Sanhedrin he belonged to (Mark 15:43; Luke 23:50–51). Why Joseph’s Act Required Courage • Public Identification—John 19:38 notes Joseph had been “a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews.” Approaching Pilate made his allegiance visible. • Political Risk—Aligning with a condemned “insurrectionist” could bring suspicion from Rome (cf. John 19:12). • Religious Opposition—As a member of the Council that condemned Jesus, Joseph faced backlash from powerful peers (Luke 23:51). • Personal Cost—A new tomb and linen cloth represented significant financial expense (Isaiah 53:9 fulfilled). Lessons on Faith in Action 1. Faith Refuses to Stay Hidden – Genuine belief eventually surfaces in courageous deeds. 2. Faith Acts When the Moment Is Costly – Obedience often carries social, financial, or reputational price tags. 3. Faith Honors Christ Tangibly – Joseph’s careful burial parallels Mary’s earlier anointing (Matthew 26:12). – James 2:17, 22: faith is perfected by works that serve the body of Christ. 4. Faith Trusts God with Outcomes – Joseph could not foresee resurrection morning, yet he acted. – 1 Corinthians 15:58: “your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” Putting It Into Practice Today • Step into visibility—speak and live so allegiance to Christ is unmistakable. • Embrace cost—budget time, resources, and courage for Kingdom needs. • Serve Christ’s body—attend to practical needs of believers with excellence. • Leave results with God—move forward in obedience even when outcomes are unclear. |
    |