LUKE 23:50–56
Then he took [the body of Jesus] down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid
(Luke 23:53).
Today, Christmas, we return to our study of Luke with a passage that speaks of the death of Jesus. While we normally associate Christmas with His birth, it is also appropriate to be reminded today of His death. Even the Wisemen’s gift of myrrh was a prophetic symbol of His having been born to die.
Joseph of Arimathea was a member of the Sanhedrin who did not consent to the conspiracy to kill Jesus. He was already a believer, a faithful old covenant saint who was waiting from the kingdom of God. He was obviously a man of considerable influence because he was able to go to Pilate and ask for Jesus’ body.
He was also a man of great wealth. Grave plots were expensive, and stone caves, completely cut out of the rock, were the most expensive. When a grave like this was used, the custom was to find several alcoves in it, so that a dozen or more bodies could be buried. Only the extremely wealthy could afford to own such a tomb privately and Matthew indicates that Joseph was such a man (27:60). Isaiah had prophesied that the Messiah, though He would die with the wicked, would have His grave with the rich (53:9), and so it came to pass.
Jesus’ body was wrapped in linen and anointed with spices in a preliminary fashion. Because the Sabbath was approaching, they were unable to finish the job, which is why the women returned early on Sunday morning. We see in this careful treatment of the body that the human body, even in death, is to be accorded respect.
Many concerns arise today regarding what is proper treatment of the dead. Is cremation biblical? What about organ donor programs? Should scientific experimentation be permitted? Scientific progress, ethics, and biblical principles collide more frequently and pastoral involvement in these matters is imperative. Whatever we decide, however, it is certain that we must not dishonor the human body.
CORAM DEO
Haggai
Revelation 16
As you celebrate Christmas, remember that Jesus was born to die. Praise Him that He is not a dead savior, but a Living Lord. God’s gift to you is life in Him, abundant, full and free. Celebrate this gift of life in your family today.
For further study: Luke 1:46–55; tape #B57INT.94/95
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