What does Matthew 27:57 mean?
"When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:" - Matthew 27:57
Matthew 27:57 from the King James Version of the Bible reads, "When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple."
This verse is situated in the story of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and it introduces Joseph of Arimathaea as a key figure. The context of this verse holds deep significance in the Christian faith, and it is important to analyze it within the larger narrative of Jesus' death and resurrection.
The Gospel of Matthew, written by the apostle Matthew, primarily focuses on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the verses preceding Matthew 27:57, Jesus is crucified, and the scene is filled with darkness, earthquake, and a soldier’s confession that Jesus is truly the Son of God. In the midst of this chaotic and sorrowful atmosphere, Joseph of Arimathaea emerges.
Joseph is described as a rich man from Arimathaea, a town near Jerusalem. He is also identified as a disciple of Jesus, which is significant as it indicates that he was a follower of Jesus during His life and ministry. The fact that Joseph was a rich man is also noteworthy because it illustrates that Jesus had followers from various social classes - a demonstration of the universality of Christ's message and salvation.
The arrival of Joseph at this specific moment holds deep symbolic significance. In a time when fear and persecution abounded, Joseph’s public identification as a follower of Jesus and his overt actions on Jesus’ behalf were brave and selfless. His actions also directly countered the prevailing sentiment of fear and animosity towards Jesus. In Christian theology, Joseph’s actions align with the theme of discipleship and the call for believers to boldly stand for their faith, even in the face of adversity.
Joseph’s actions also highlight the theme of redemption and stewardship in the Christian faith. He used his wealth and resources to serve the cause of Jesus. In Mark 15:46, it is mentioned that Joseph brought fine linen and took Jesus down from the cross and wrapped Him in it. This act of care and respect for Jesus' body, despite the risk to his own reputation and safety, embodies the Christian teaching of stewardship and the responsible use of one's resources to honor and serve God.
Furthermore, Joseph’s actions fulfill the Old Testament prophecy found in Isaiah 53:9, which states, "And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth." This prophecy is fulfilled in Joseph's role in providing a tomb for Jesus, as Jesus was buried in a tomb meant for a rich man, highlighting Jesus’ innocence and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in His life.
In summary, Matthew 27:57 serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of Jesus' crucifixion and burial. Joseph of Arimathaea's courageous and selfless actions embody important themes of discipleship, stewardship, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. His example challenges believers to boldly stand for their faith and to use their resources in service of the cause of Christ. This verse thus holds a deep and timeless significance within the Christian faith, and serves as a powerful example of devotion and love for Jesus Christ.
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Matthew 27:57 - "When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:"
"When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple:" - Matthew 27:57
Matthew 27:57-66 - "Matthew 27:57-66 57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: 58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. 59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed. 61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. 62 Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, 63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. 64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first. 65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can. 66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch."
"Matthew 27:57-66 57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: 58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. 59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed. 61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre. 62 Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, 63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. 64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first. 65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can. 66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch." - Matthew 27:57-66
Matthew 13:57 - "And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house."
Matthew 26:57 - "¶ And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled."
Matthew 27:46
Matthew 27:35
Matthew 24:27
Matthew 27:26
Matthew 27:26
Matthew 27: 38
Matthew 27:27 - "Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers."
Matthew 7:24-27
Matthew 27:16 - "And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas."
Matthew 27:36 - "And sitting down they watched him there;"
Matthew 27:18 - "For he knew that for envy they had delivered him."
Matthew 22:27 - "And last of all the woman died also."
Matthew 27:39 - "¶ And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,"
"¶ And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled." - Matthew 26:57
Matthew 27:8 - "Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day."
Matthew 27:28 - "And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe."
Matthew 27:7 - "And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in."
Matthew 27:10 - "And gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord appointed me."
Matthew 27:41 - "Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,"
Matthew 18:27 - "Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt."
Matthew 27:52 - "And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,"
Matthew 27:12 - "And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing."
Matthew 27:61 - "And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre."
Matthew 20:27 - "And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:"