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I. The burial of Jesus by Joseph and his friend is an interesting illustration of faith. He accepted the evidence that Jesus was Christ. The popular fury had not affected his faith. Calm and dignified in his faith, he respectfully makes his request to Pilate. When we believe with all the heart we shall not be hindered by great difficulties from professing Christ.

II. In the conduct of Joseph we have an illustration of MORAL COURAGE AND DECISION OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER. It exposed any man to loss of reputation to favour one who was subject to crucifixion.

III. The conduct of Joseph is an illustration of THE POWER WHICH ARDENT LOVE FOR CHRIST HAS ON THE LIFE AND CONDUCT. Here was the secret of his courage, the hiding of its power. He loved Christ.

IV. The grace of God CAN PREVAIL OVER HINDRANCES TO FAITH AND CHRISTIAN ZEAL IN THE CHARACTERS AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF MEN. It is remarkable that the two men who performed this courageous act were men once timid and cautious. God can place us in circumstances where our faith can suddenly acquire the force of years. We naturally like men at once to declare for Christ, like the morning star which glows in the sun-rising. Some are like St. John, constant from first to last.

V. The REWARD which Joseph had for his conduct. There in his tomb life and immortality were brought to light. The builder of the Pyramids is not to be compared for fame to the owner of that tomb. Every one of us has his own peculiar opportunity of showing his attachment to Christ.

(T. Adams, D. D.)

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

WEB: When evening had come, a rich man from Arimathaea, named Joseph, who himself was also Jesus' disciple came.