Buried with the Rich – A Part of the Gospel

John 19:38-42

The burial of Jesus Christ is often overshadowed by His crucifixion and resurrection. This is, of course, understandable due to the significance of both. However, Jesus’ burial is a vitally important aspect of the gospel message, as indicated in 1 Corinthians 15:1-8. In Jesus’ burial, God's hand was at work, fulfilling prophecy and demonstrating His sovereign control over every detail. Additionally, John 19:38-42 shifts the tone from the brutal treatment of Jesus on the cross to the loving care shown in His burial. Though wicked men had their way for a time, God would not allow His Son to be dishonored any further.

No Longer in Secret

Two men who had followed Jesus in secret stepped forward to care for His body. It is fascinating that the cruelty of the cross led these two men to be public witnesses’ for the Lord Jesus. As is often the case, righteous men stand up in times of evil. The two men are Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus.

Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy man (Matthew 27:57). He was also a member of the Jewish council who had opposed their plans related to Jesus (Luke 23:50-51). Though he is often referred to as a secret disciple, the crucifixion changed him. Due to the egregious act of crucifying Jesus, he could no longer remain in the shadows. Taking courage, he went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body, knowing that this act could bring personal cost.

Nicodemus was a Pharisee as well as a member of the Sanhedrin who had once come to Jesus under the cover of night (John 3). Similar to Joseph, the cross changed him to now come out openly. Nicodemus publicly paid tribute to Jesus by bringing an extravagant amount of spices, which were fit for a king (John 19:39). While the other disciples had fled, these two men stepped forward, honoring the Lord at a time when it was most dangerous to do so.

Fulfillment of Prophecy

Many prophecies were fulfilled in regard to Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. In the case of his burial, Isaiah 53:9 prophesied that though the wicked plotted to bury Jesus with criminals, He would instead be with the rich in His death. Joseph’s new tomb became the resting place of the One who had no earthly possessions. Additionally, although in His earthly ministry he was often mistreated, in Jesus’ death He was honored. It is encouraging to remember that although evil, wicked men had their moment, they still could not thwart the promises of God. The same is true today.

“Wicked men plotted to bury Jesus with the criminals, but God overruled, and He was with the rich at His death. Men plotted a shameful burial for Him although He had done no wrong, spoken no lie.”[1]  

Although the burial of Jesus is often overlooked in regard to the crucifixion and resurrection, it is an important part of the gospel. The cross was a place of suffering, but the tomb was a place of divine reversal. What men meant for shame, God turned into glory.

Blessings,

Pastor Steven

[1] Believer's Bible Commentary, pg. 1237.