1. Joseph of Arimathea (42-43a)

Joseph of Arimathea was a prominent member of the Sanhedrin. He was a wealthy man, but he was not satisfied with the things of the world. He put his hope in the kingdom of God. He believed in Jesus, but had never had the courage to take a stand for Jesus before his peers.

2. Joseph's decision (43b-45)

Evening came, and Jesus was still hanging on the cross; Joseph made a bold decision. He asked Pilate for Jesus' body. This was a declaration of his commitment to Jesus. He was no longer a hidden believer.

3. Jesus' burial (46-47)

Usually, more time was required for a crucified man to die, so Pilate was surprised to hear that Jesus was dead. He checked it out carefully, then gave Joseph permission to take the body. The fact of Jesus' death was established.

Application: Lord, help me to have clear identity as a Christian.
One Word: A secret believer goes public