Matthew 27:57
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Matthew 27:57
57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, fellowship, obedience. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-66: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 27:57
57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:
Analysis
When the even was come (ὀψίας δὲ γενομένης)—the evening before Sabbath began at sundown, creating urgency to complete burial. A rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph—fulfilling Isaiah 53:9, 'with the rich in his death.' Joseph was a Sanhedrin member (Luke 23:50-51) who had not consented to Jesus' condemnation, and secretly a disciple (μαθητής) of Jesus.
His wealth enabled him to own a tomb; his status as Sanhedrin member gave him access to Pilate. God providentially placed this man to ensure Jesus received honorable burial rather than the criminals' mass grave at Golgotha. Joseph's courage—publicly identifying with a condemned criminal—cost him his Sanhedrin seat and social standing, embodying Jesus' call to 'take up your cross' (Matthew 16:24).
Historical Context
Jewish law required burial before sundown (Deuteronomy 21:23). Crucified criminals normally remained on crosses for days and were buried in common graves. Joseph's intervention was both religiously necessary (to avoid defiling the Sabbath and Passover) and personally costly—he risked ritual defilement, career destruction, and Roman suspicion.
Reflection
- What caused Joseph to finally go public with his discipleship after remaining secret for so long?
- How does Joseph's costly identification with Jesus challenge comfortable, secret Christianity today?