57: At the evening, which was close to the end of the Jewish day and the beginning of the next, we see yet another amazing part of God’s plan. Two who were secretly disciples of Christ, Joseph and Nicodemus, moved his body to the proper place. Arimathaea was a place not too far from Jerusalem, and Joseph was a man not only of wealth, but of influence.
58: Pilate would not normally allow the burial of a criminal, especially one convicted of treason. However, Joseph’s influence, combined with Pilate’s own knowledge of the case, convinced him.
Pilate was very surprised to learn that Jesus was already dead. People usually lasted as much as several days on the cross. The soldiers were even then preparing to brake the legs of the criminals so as to hasten their death. For Christ, this was unnecessary.
This was all the fulfillment of prophecy. He was buried by the rich, and not one of his bones was broken.
Personal Journal Entry #12050
Prayer Journal Entry #12050
Daily Bible Reading: Numbers 11:1-13:33
Praise Journal Entry #12011: Heavenly Father, Your goodness in spite of our sin is an eternal testimony to Your grace and glory. The working of Your plan is beautiful in every respect. By Your sovereignty You control the particulars of everything. Thank You for the clarity of Your word, and Your Works which are recorded in it. I cannot ever fully grasp the extent of Your glory! You are beyond all that I could ever imagine. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.