Luke 23:50-56 – Unknown Disciples
Christ has some disciples of whom little is known. Joseph of Arimathaea is one of them. At the very time when the apostles have forsaken Jesus, Joseph is not ashamed to show his love and respect. There are many believers who may not be well-known in the church, but whose love of Christ is second to none. They may be hidden away in churches and situations where we wouldn’t expect to find any true believers, but on the day of judgement, their faithfulness will be revealed.
Christ really does die. His body is taken from the cross. His corpse is wrapped in linen and buried in a tomb. This is a historical fact with numerous witnesses. If Christ hadn’t died, that would be the end of the Gospel. Nothing short of His death could have paid man’s debt to God. The punishment of sin is eternal death in hell. If Christ had not died in our place, this punishment would be ours. Sinners believing in Jesus can hope and not be afraid. Yes, they are guilty. But Christ has died for the guilty; and their debt is now completely paid.
Finally, there is a small fact found in these verses that often goes overlooked. Jesus’ disciples respect and obey the fourth commandment If ever there is a time when it seems okay to forget to keep the Sabbath, surely this time, when their Lord and Master has been murdered, is one. But the disciples are scrupulous about keeping the Sabbath as a day of rest, even in the midst of their great confusion and grief. Keeping the Lord’s Day is good for mind, body, and soul; it is good for the nation and the church.
Questions
- Why is it necessary for Christ to die?
- Why do the disciples keep the Sabbath?
- How can we keep the fourth commandment better?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks that Christ has died on the cross and risen again.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.