Luke highlights that Joseph was not just "good" and "righteous" (which might simply mean he followed the rules), but that he was characterized by a deeper, active goodness and benevolence that set him apart. This description hints that his righteous actions stemmed from a more profound moral and spiritual quality, setting him up as a man of exceptional character.
Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their decision and action; and he was looking for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Immediately following Jesus' crucifixion and death, this passage introduces Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member who, despite his respected position, secretly followed Jesus. His actions here, boldly requesting Jesus' body from Pilate and arranging for his burial in his own new tomb before the Sabbath, directly contrast with the hostile actions of the Jewish authorities detailed just before this. This narrative moment bridges the dark finality of the cross with the hope of the resurrection, highlighting God's providence in ensuring Jesus received an honorable burial.
What does it mean to be 'good and just,' especially when you hold a position of power?
Luke introduces Joseph of Arimathea not just as a bystander, but as a significant figure: 'a member of the council, a good and righteous man.'
Standing Apart
Being a 'member of the council' meant Joseph was part of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling body. This was a position of authority and influence, but also one where many members actively sought Jesus' death. The fact that Luke highlights Joseph's goodness and righteousness in contrast to the council's actions is powerful. It suggests he was a man who tried to live by God's standards, even when it was difficult or unpopular within his own circle.
The Meaning of Good and Just
Luke uses unique language here. While other Gospels call him 'honorable' or 'rich,' Luke emphasizes his inner character: 'good and just.'
Together, these terms paint a picture of a man who not only followed the rules but also had a heart for God and for doing what was right, even when it meant standing against the tide.
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When Jesus' followers were scattered and afraid, one man stepped out of the shadows.
Joseph's identity as a 'good and righteous man' is put to the ultimate test immediately after Jesus' death. Despite his position and the potential repercussions, he took bold action.
A Secret Disciple's Bold Move
While he was a disciple, Joseph had likely kept his faith private, perhaps due to his standing in the council. The death of Jesus, however, seemed to ignite a courage he hadn't displayed before. He didn't just wait for things to be over; he actively intervened.
Seeking the Body
Joseph 'went in boldly to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.' This was an astonishing act:
Was Joseph's act simply his own initiative, or was something greater at play?
The Gospel writers highlight that Joseph's actions, while personal, were also part of God's larger plan.
Divine Intervention
Commentators point out that God orchestrates events, using willing individuals to fulfill His purposes. Joseph, a man of wealth and influence, was uniquely positioned to give Jesus an honorable burial, something that wouldn't have happened if the disciples had been forced to act in haste or secrecy.
Fulfilling Prophecy
Jesus' burial in a new tomb, owned by Joseph, was significant. It ensured that the tomb would remain undisturbed, ready for the resurrection – a powerful visual confirmation of Christ's victory over death. It wasn't just any burial; it was a burial that pointed towards the future glory and power of God.
A New Beginning
This act of human kindness and courage, guided by divine providence, bridges the gap between the ignominy of the cross and the glory of the resurrection. It shows us that even in moments of apparent defeat, God is working to bring about His ultimate plan.
Understand the original words
basileia tou theou · Greek Noun phrase
The sovereign rule, reign, or royal authority of God over creation, His people, and the hearts of believers. It is both a present reality in the lives of the faithful and a future hope of consummation.
bouleutēs · Greek Noun
A standard term for the Jewish high court, the Sanhedrin, which held religious and political authority in Judea under Roman oversight. It consisted of elders, priests, and scribes.
agathos kai dikaios · Greek Adjective phrase
Describes a person who lives in conformity with God's moral law and possesses integrity of character. It denotes one who acts uprightly toward both God and fellow human beings.
Pilatou · Greek Proper Noun
A Roman governor or procurator of Judea appointed to maintain Roman authority, collect taxes, and administer justice. He is historically noted for presiding over the trial of Jesus and authorizing His crucifixion.
sōma · Greek Noun
The physical form of a human being. In a biblical context, it refers to the material aspect of humanity, and regarding Jesus, it underscores the reality of His incarnation, suffering, and death.
sindoni · Greek Noun
Fine cloth made from flax, typically white, used for clothing, priestly garments, and burial wrappings. Its use for burial signifies dignity and the care taken to honor the deceased.
mnēmati · Greek Noun
A place of burial, often a cave or carved opening in rock. In Scripture, it serves as the final resting place for the dead and is the site where the miracle of the resurrection occurs.
Joseph of Arimathea's courageous act of burying Jesus highlights his faith and commitment, particularly because he was a member of the Sanhedrin, the very council that condemned Jesus. This took place during a tense period of Roman occupation and strict observance of Jewish law regarding the Sabbath.
c. 30 AD— this verse
Jesus Crucified and Buried
Jesus of Nazareth is crucified under Roman governor Pontius Pilate. Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy and respected member of the Jewish ruling council, unexpectedly requests Jesus' body from Pilate and buries it in his own new tomb.
c. 30 AD
Jewish Passover and Sabbath Preparation
The crucifixion and burial occur on the day before the Sabbath, which began at sunset. This timing created urgency for Jesus' burial, as Jewish law required bodies to be buried before the Sabbath began.
c. 30 AD
Roman Rule in Judea
Judea is under direct Roman occupation, with Pontius Pilate serving as prefect. Roman authority dictates public executions, and the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high council, operates within this Roman framework.
c. 30 AD
Jewish Council (Sanhedrin) Influence
Joseph of Arimathea is identified as a member of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court. This council held significant religious and legal authority, but their decisions were ultimately subject to Roman approval.
This passage introduces Joseph of Arimathea with similar descriptions, highlighting his wealth and his discipleship, underscoring his prominent but previously hidden role.
Mark 15:43Mark also identifies Joseph as a 'noble member of the council' and someone 'waiting for the kingdom of God,' emphasizing his courage in boldly approaching Pilate.
John 19:38John provides additional context by mentioning Nicodemus alongside Joseph, revealing that both were secret disciples who worked together in burying Jesus.
Romans 5:7This verse speaks about the rare nature of dying for a righteous person, which serves as a profound theological backdrop to Joseph's courageous actions for Jesus, who was perfectly good and just.
Acts 11:24Barnabas is described as a 'good man' full of the Holy Spirit and faith, mirroring the description of Joseph as 'good and righteous,' illustrating how such qualities are divinely empowered for service.
vincentLuke 23:50: "And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counseller; and he was a good man, and a just:"
CouncillorSee on Mark 15:43. Matthew calls him rich; Mark, honorable; Luke, good and just.
calvinLuke 23:50-56: "And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counseller; and he was a good man, and a just:"
- And when the evening was come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself was a disciple of Jesus. 58. He went to Pilate, and requested the body of Jesus; then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. 59. And Joseph, having received the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. 60. And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock, and having ro…
Luke highlights that Joseph was not just "good" and "righteous" (which might simply mean he followed the rules), but that he was characterized by a deeper, active goodness and benevolence that set him apart. This description hints that his righteous actions stemmed from a more profound moral and spiritual quality, setting him up as a man of exceptional character.
Immediately following Jesus' crucifixion and death, this passage introduces Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member who, despite his respected position, secretly followed Jesus. His actions here, boldly requesting Jesus' body from Pilate and arranging for his burial in his own new tomb before the Sabbath, directly contrast with the hostile actions of the Jewish authorities detailed just before this. This narrative moment bridges the dark finality of the cross with the hope of the resurrection, highlighting God's providence in ensuring Jesus received an honorable burial.
Immediately following Jesus' crucifixion and death, this passage introduces Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member who, despite his respected position, secretly followed Jesus. His actions here, boldly requesting Jesus' body from Pilate and arranging for his burial in his own new tomb before the Sabbath, directly contrast with the hostile actions of the Jewish authorities detailed just before this. This narrative moment bridges the dark finality of the cross with the hope of the resurrection, highlighting God's providence in ensuring Jesus received an honorable burial.
"Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their decision and action; and he was looking for the kingdom of God. This man went to…" — Luke highlights that Joseph was not just "good" and "righteous" (which might simply mean he followed the rules), but that he was characterized by a deeper, active goodness and benevolence that set hi…
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Last reviewed October 2026
