John 19:38-39 is about Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus coming forward as secret followers of Jesus, showing courage to claim the body of Jesus, prepare it for burial, and placing it in a tomb, symbolizing their acceptance of Jesus as the true Messiah and their commitment to honor and respect him.
38 After these things Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body.
39 Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight.
Setting the Scene for John 19:38-39
The scene in John chapter 19:38-39 takes place after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Jewish council who was secretly a disciple of Jesus, approaches Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, to request permission to take Jesus’ body down from the cross. Pilate grants his request, and Joseph, along with Nicodemus, another secret disciple of Jesus, takes down the body of Jesus.
The setting is the hill of Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified, just outside the walls of Jerusalem. The atmosphere is heavy with grief and solemnity as Joseph and Nicodemus carefully remove Jesus’ body from the cross. The sky is darkened, and the crowd that had gathered to witness the crucifixion has begun to disperse, leaving only a few faithful followers and onlookers.
As Joseph and Nicodemus prepare Jesus’ body for burial, they are joined by Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus, who stand nearby, weeping and offering their final respects to the beloved teacher and son. The scene is one of profound sorrow and reverence, as these devoted followers of Jesus come together to honor his life and prepare him for burial in a nearby tomb.
What is John 19:38-39 about?
This verse illustrates the profound fulfillment of prophecy and the deep respect and care shown to Jesus even after his crucifixion. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, two disciples who were previously apprehensive about publicly supporting Jesus, now step forward boldly to give him a dignified burial. They go beyond the norm by not only burying Jesus but also anointing his body with spices, a gesture that symbolizes reverence and honor.
Can you imagine the courage it must have taken for Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus to stand up for Jesus in this moment of intense persecution and public shame? Their actions demonstrate a transformation from fear to courage and from doubt to faith. They play a crucial role in the unfolding of God’s plan for salvation by fulfilling the prophecy through their humble yet significant acts. This verse invites us to reflect on the power of faith, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the depth of love and sacrifice shown by these two disciples towards Jesus in his darkest hour.
Understanding what John 19:38-39 really means
In John 19:38-39, we witness a poignant moment following the crucifixion of Jesus, where Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus step forward to honor and care for the body of Christ. Joseph, a secret disciple of Jesus, approaches Pilate to request Jesus’ body, while Nicodemus, known for his nighttime visit to Jesus, brings a generous mixture of myrrh and aloes for the burial. Their actions speak volumes about their deep respect and devotion to Jesus, even amidst the societal pressures and potential risks they faced.
These verses offer a glimpse into the courage and faith displayed by Joseph and Nicodemus, who defied the norms of their time to stand by Jesus in His final moments. Their willingness to publicly associate with Jesus, despite the prevailing fear and opposition, challenges us to consider the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when it may be uncomfortable or perilous.
Nicodemus’ transformation from a curious seeker to a bold participant in Jesus’ burial underscores the transformative power of faith. His journey serves as a reminder for us to continually grow in our faith and take bold steps in our spiritual walk, moving from a place of hesitation to one of conviction and action.
Moreover, the actions of Joseph and Nicodemus highlight the significance of honoring and respecting the departed. Their meticulous care in preparing Jesus’ body reflects the dignity and reverence we should extend to others, reminding us of the value of showing compassion and honor to those around us.
Consider a contemporary parallel where someone advocates for a marginalized group despite potential backlash, akin to Joseph and Nicodemus risking their reputations to honor Jesus. This modern-day act of courage and compassion mirrors the bravery displayed by these two men, who chose to prioritize their faith and values above societal expectations.
As we delve into the profound meanings encapsulated in these verses, we are encouraged to emulate the courage, honor, and transformation exemplified by Joseph and Nicodemus. Their story serves as a beacon of inspiration, urging us to live out our faith with boldness, reverence, and a willingness to undergo personal growth and transformation in our spiritual journey.
How can we show courage in following Jesus?
We can show courage in following Jesus by not being afraid to openly identify as His disciples, regardless of what others may think or say. We too can display our commitment to Him by bravely standing up for our beliefs, even in the face of opposition or persecution, just as Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus did by providing a proper burial for Jesus. This can include sharing the Gospel boldly, living out our faith in our daily lives, and actively serving others in Christ’s name.
Additionally, we can demonstrate courage in following Jesus by being willing to step out of our comfort zones and take risks for the sake of the Kingdom. This may involve sacrificially giving of our time, resources, and talents to further God’s purposes here on earth, even when it seems difficult or daunting. We can approach challenges with a fearless spirit by trusting in God’s strength and guidance, knowing that He is always with us and will empower us to carry out His work with courage and conviction. Putting our full trust and obedience in Him, no matter the circumstances or obstacles we may face, ultimately shows courage in following Jesus. We can experience true freedom and joy as we walk in faith and align our lives with His will by surrendering our fears, doubts, and insecurities to Him. Through our courageous witness and unwavering faith, we can inspire others to also take up their cross and follow Him wholeheartedly.
Application
Think about Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, stepping up when it mattered most, much like taking on a critical work project or standing up for your family. They didn’t shy away from potential backlash. What brave step does your faith demand from you right now? Where can you make a difference that truly counts? Will you rise to the occasion like they did, or stay in the background?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.