Meaning of Matthew 27:59

This verse describes a pivotal moment in the burial of Jesus, highlighting the respect and care shown by Joseph of Arimathea. Following Jesus' crucifixion and death, as the Sabbath was drawing near, Joseph, a wealthy and respected member of the Sanhedrin, took the initiative to request Jesus' body from Pilate. This action, described in Matthew 27:57-60, is significant because it demonstrates a courageous act of discipleship in a time of immense public shame and religious opposition. The act of wrapping Jesus' body in a "clean linen cloth" signifies a solemn and reverent preparation for burial, adhering to Jewish customs and reflecting a profound honor bestowed upon the deceased, even one condemned as a criminal. This detail underscores the humanity of Jesus and the tangible, physical reality of his death, which is crucial for the theological implications of his resurrection.

Context and Background

The immediate context is the aftermath of Jesus' crucifixion. The Roman authorities, represented by Pontius Pilate, had condemned Jesus to death. The Jewish religious leadership, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees, had also been instrumental in his condemnation. The crucifixion was a public spectacle, a brutal and ignominious end for any condemned person. The approach of the Sabbath, which began at sunset on Friday and lasted until sunset on Saturday, meant that any burial had to be completed before this sacred time. Joseph of Arimathea, identified as a "rich man" (Matthew 27:57) and a "prominent member of the Sanhedrin" (Mark 15:43) who was also "waiting for the kingdom of God" (Mark 15:43), steps forward. His willingness to publicly claim the body of a crucified man, who was considered an enemy of the state and a blasphemer by some religious factions, was a bold and potentially dangerous act, especially given his standing in society.

Key Themes and Messages

Several key themes emerge from this verse:

• Respect for the Dead: The act of wrapping the body in a clean linen cloth demonstrates a profound respect for the deceased. In Jewish tradition, burial was an important ritual, and the preparation of the body was done with care.
• Discipleship and Courage: Joseph's actions exemplify courageous discipleship. He risked his reputation and potentially his safety by openly identifying with Jesus and ensuring his proper burial.
• Fulfillment of Prophecy: The burial of Jesus in a tomb, particularly one belonging to Joseph, is seen by many Christians as fulfilling Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53:9, which foretold that the suffering servant would be "assigned a tomb with the wicked, and with the rich in his death."
• Humanity of Jesus: The physical act of preparing and burying Jesus' body underscores his true humanity. He experienced death in the same way all humans do.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse speaks to the importance of honoring Christ even in death. Joseph's actions, though earthly, have eternal significance. They show that even in the darkest hour, there are those who will act with faith and love. For believers today, it serves as a call to:

• Demonstrate Love and Reverence: To treat the memory and teachings of Christ with the utmost respect and to live in a way that honors him.
• Embrace Boldness in Faith: To be willing to stand for one's beliefs, even when it is unpopular or carries a cost.
• Recognize God's Providence: To see how God works through individuals, even those not overtly part of the inner circle, to accomplish His purposes.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a crucial bridge between the crucifixion and the resurrection. It anchors the theological claims of Christianity in historical reality. Without a physical death and burial, the resurrection would lack its profound meaning. The careful burial prepares the way for the empty tomb, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith. It also connects to the broader narrative of God's redemptive plan, initiated in the Old Testament and culminating in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. The detail of the burial in a new tomb (Matthew 27:60) is also significant, as it ensures that no one could later claim Jesus had merely been moved to another grave.

Analogies

One analogy for Joseph's action is that of a loyal soldier carefully tending to the fallen body of a beloved commander, ensuring that even in death, the commander is given the dignity and respect befitting their station, preparing them for a dignified rest before a significant ceremony. Another analogy could be akin to a family member meticulously preparing a loved one for a funeral, not just out of obligation, but out of deep affection and a desire to provide a final act of care and honor.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse is intrinsically linked to several other passages:

• Matthew 27:57-58: These verses describe Joseph requesting the body from Pilate, setting the stage for the burial.
• Matthew 27:60: This verse states that Joseph "rolled a large stone against the entrance of the tomb, and went away," further detailing the burial process.
• John 19:38-42: This passage in John provides a parallel account of Joseph of Arimathea, joined by Nicodemus, preparing Jesus' body with spices and linen, and placing it in a new tomb.
• Isaiah 53:9: As mentioned earlier, this Old Testament prophecy is often seen as a prefiguration of Jesus' burial.
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-4: This passage summarizes the core of the Gospel message, including Jesus' death for sins, his burial, and his resurrection on the third day, highlighting the theological importance of the burial.