With the Rich in His Death

Joseph of Arimethea a member of the Sanhedrin, went to the Roman leader, Pontius Pilate, and obtained permission to bury the body of Jesus. Together with another Jewish leader, Nicodemus, he wrapped the body in linen clothes with expensive spices and buried Jesus in his own newly hewn tomb (see Matthew 27:57-60; Mark 15:42-46; Luke 23:50-54; John 19:38-42).

Thus they fulfilled a prophecy of Isaiah, that the Messiah would be “with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth” (Isaiah 53:9; Mosiah 14:9). Luke tells us that Joseph “had not consented” to the conviction and execution of Jesus (Luke 23:51). Nicodemus had previously publicly defended Jesus (John 7:50-51) and had earlier sought counsel and guidance from Jesus (John 3). Thus Jesus was not entirely forsaken. Like the prophet Abinadi, whose teaching converted one of King Noah’s priests, Jesus had gained disciples even among the wealthy ruling class in Jerusalem (see Mosiah 17:1-4).

Speaking of these two wealthy and influential disciples, Andrew Skinner wrote:

It took great courage for Joseph to appear before Pilate to procure the Savior’s body. He was taking a risk to act so boldly before Roman authority, and he was certainly in peril from Jewish leaders and fellow members of the Sanhedrin …

Jesus was condemned to die by the vehemence of the Jewish council, and yet he was laid to rest in the tomb of one of the most honorable members of that council. …

Both Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus were righteous leaders of the Jews who recognized the special nature of the Savior’s life and teachings. They remained loyal to him and performed a special act of love and respect. They actions they took in association with the Savior’s burial … fulfilled prophecy. Isaiah had said the Messiah would be “with the rich in his death,” and so he was.

Golgotha, 176-179

Today I will remember and be grateful for the humble service of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who risked their reputations and standing in order to give the Savior a proper burial. I will recommit to do what is right, even when it isn’t popular.