What can we learn about courage from Joseph's actions in Luke 23:53? Setting the Scene Luke 23:53: “Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had yet been laid.” Joseph of Arimathea—a respected member of the Council—steps forward after the crucifixion, requests Jesus’ body from Pilate (Mark 15:43), and personally lays it in his own new tomb (Matthew 27:60). Courage Shown in Joseph’s Actions • Bold public identification with Jesus when most disciples had fled • Willingness to approach Pilate, the Roman governor, risking political and social fallout • Personal sacrifice of time, resources, and reputation—his own tomb becomes Jesus’ resting place • Physical involvement: he touches the lifeless body, an act considered defiling under Jewish law (Numbers 19:11-13) Catalysts for Joseph’s Courage • Kingdom hope Mark 15:43 says he was “waiting for the kingdom of God,” anchoring his courage in God’s promises • Love that “casts out fear” (1 John 4:18) Compassion for the Lord overruled self-preservation • Divine empowerment 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Scriptural confidence Isaiah 53:9 foretells Messiah’s burial with “a rich man”; Joseph’s actions unknowingly fulfill prophecy, demonstrating how faith aligns with God’s sovereign plan How Joseph’s Courage Speaks to Us Today • Courage is often quiet obedience rather than loud declarations • True bravery may cost comfort, status, and possessions • Aligning with Jesus publicly remains counter-cultural, yet it honors Him (Matthew 10:32) • God uses individual acts of courage to accomplish larger redemptive purposes Walking It Out: Practical Steps 1. Identify where fear silences your witness; confess and surrender it to the Lord 2. Take tangible, compassionate actions that reflect allegiance to Christ—even when costly 3. Stay rooted in Scripture; courage grows as God’s promises eclipse earthly threats (Joshua 1:9) 4. Surround yourself with believers who model bold faith, spurring one another on to love and good works (Hebrews 10:24) |
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