What is the meaning of Mark 15:42? Now it was already evening • Jesus had been on the cross from “the sixth hour… until the ninth hour” (Mark 15:33). By the time His body hung lifeless, “evening” had set in, signaling the close of that same day (Matthew 27:57). • God’s law required a body not remain on a tree overnight (Deuteronomy 21:22-23), so the approach of nightfall put urgency on removing Jesus from the cross. • The moment underscores fulfilled prophecy: His suffering ended exactly within the limits set by Scripture, highlighting the Father’s perfect timing (Galatians 4:4-5). • Practical takeaway: God works on a precise timetable. When circumstances seem delayed, remember His clock never misfires (Psalm 31:15). Since it was Preparation Day • “Preparation Day” was the common Jewish term for Friday, the day set aside to ready meals, lamps, and hearts for the Sabbath rest (Luke 23:54). • Joseph of Arimathea therefore “gathered up courage” to request Jesus’ body quickly (Mark 15:43), knowing dusk would close the workday. • The rush to prepare reminds us: – Obedience sometimes calls for courageous, time-sensitive action (John 19:38-40). – True devotion includes practical service—clean linen, a new tomb, spices—alongside private belief (James 2:17). That is, the day before the Sabbath • The Sabbath, commanded in Exodus 20:8-11 and modeled by God at Creation, began at sunset (Leviticus 23:32). Everything had to cease by then. • By stating “the day before the Sabbath,” Mark affirms a literal, fixed weekly rhythm that framed the crucifixion narrative (John 19:31). • The Sabbath pointed to rest; Christ’s finished work on the cross secured the ultimate rest for all who believe (Hebrews 4:9-10). • Application: The weekly pause still invites worshippers to remember redemption accomplished—a rhythm of rest rooted in the completed work of Jesus. summary Mark 15:42 sets the scene: evening has fallen, Friday’s preparations are pressing, and the Sabbath’s arrival looms. Every detail—time of day, urgency of duties, and sacred calendar—aligns to showcase God’s unerring sovereignty and Christ’s fulfillment of the law. The verse reminds believers that our Lord bowed to time’s limits so we might enter eternal rest, calling us to timely obedience and confident trust in His perfect schedule. |
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