Joseph of Arimathea

The Courageous Disciple in Secret

Main Texts

Matthew 27:57–60

Mark 15:42–47

Luke 23:50–56

John 19:38–42

I. Introduction

Joseph of Arimathea is a quiet yet pivotal figure in the passion narrative. Though mentioned only briefly, his actions speak volumes about faith, courage, and devotion. At a moment when most of Jesus’ disciples fled in fear, Joseph stepped forward publicly to care for the body of the crucified Christ.

II. Historical and Scriptural Background

Who Was Joseph of Arimathea?

A Rich Man (Matthew 27:57)He possessed wealth, influence, and social standing — qualities that could have easily kept him silent about following Jesus.

A Prominent Member of the Sanhedrin (Mark 15:43)The Sanhedrin was the Jewish ruling council responsible for condemning Jesus to death. Joseph was part of this elite group, yet he did not consent to their decision (Luke 23:51).

From ArimatheaArimathea was likely a town in Judea, possibly identified with Ramathaim-Zophim (1 Samuel 1:1), the hometown of Samuel.

A Good and Righteous Man (Luke 23:50)Scripture commends his character directly—a rare description that marks him as sincere, upright, and just.

A Secret Disciple (John 19:38)Joseph believed in Jesus but feared the Jewish authorities. However, in Jesus’ death, Joseph’s faith overcame his fear.

III. Joseph’s Courage and Faith

1. He Acted When Others Fled

After Jesus’ death, most of the disciples went into hiding. Yet Joseph went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus(Mark 15:43).

This act required immense courage—both political and social.

Associating with a condemned criminal could mean ruin, disgrace, or even danger.

2. He Offered His Own Tomb

Matthew 27:60 says Joseph laid Jesus in his own new tomb, which had been hewn out of rock.

A new tomb symbolized purity and honor.

This act fulfilled prophecy:

“He was with a rich man in his death” — Isaiah 53:9

It also showed deep personal sacrifice and reverence.

3. He Prepared the Body with Nicodemus

According to John 19:39–40, Joseph was joined by Nicodemus, another secret disciple. Together, they wrapped Jesus’ body with linen and spices “in accordance with Jewish burial customs.”

Their actions express devotion and love when hope seemed lost.

They served quietly, faithfully, and tenderly.

IV. Lessons from Joseph of Arimathea

1. Courage to Stand for Christ

Faith often calls for courage, especially when the cost is high.

Joseph risked reputation and position to honor Christ—how do we respond when faith is inconvenient?

2. True Discipleship Is Revealed in Action

Joseph’s faith was hidden, but the moment of crisis revealed his loyalty.

Real discipleship is not merely belief—it’s action when the world watches.

3. God Uses the Quietly Faithful

Joseph’s quiet faith played a crucial role in fulfilling prophecy and preserving Jesus’ body for resurrection.

Never underestimate the value of hidden service.

4. Hope in the Midst of Loss

When all seemed hopeless, Joseph’s actions pointed toward hope.

His faith prepared the way for the glory of resurrection morning.

V. Discussion Questions

What do Joseph’s actions teach us about courage and faith under pressure?

How can believers today show public loyalty to Christ in a culture that may oppose Him?

What might “secret discipleship” look like today—and when must it become public?

In what ways can quiet, faithful service impact God’s kingdom?

How does Joseph’s role connect to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy (Isaiah 53:9)?

VI. Application

Personal: Is there an area of your life where you’ve been a “secret disciple”? What would it look like to step forward in faith?

Community: Encourage believers who serve quietly—those who prepare, clean, organize, or give behind the scenes.

Faith: Remember that even when it seems too late or dark, God’s plan continues. Joseph’s act of faith came in the darkest hour but led to the dawn of resurrection.

VII. Conclusion

Joseph of Arimathea reminds us that true discipleship often blooms in the shadows of despair. His courage in burying Jesus became part of God’s glorious story of resurrection. When others lose heart, Joseph’s example calls us to step forward—boldly, reverently, and faithfully—to honor our Lord, no matter the cost.