Joseph Or Arimathea

Book excerpt: Joseph of Arimathea tells the story of the man who took upon himself the task of burying Jesus after His crucifixion. Joseph, who is briefly discussed in all four gospel accounts, is a mere footnote in Scripture, but his actions speak volumes and give the working Christian an example of how to live for Christ in a world that opposes Him. Joseph of Arimathea reaches through the verses of Scripture to our own generation in a powerful, relevant, and compelling way. He teaches us that the ordinary matters. An ordinary person, living an ordinary life, can be an instrument in the hands of God to be used for His purposes. Looking closely at the life of this disciple, Joseph of Arimathea defines what it means to be a person of the small print and offers a paradigm-shifting perspective on how to be a disciple of Christ in a secular world. At a time when influence, followers, and clout are the order of the day, Joseph reminds us that small acts of faithfulness can lead to astounding influence and impact through justice, conscience, and power. Joseph of Arimathea validates the contemporary mindset of preparing to stand up for what is right, often in the face of, an increasingly hostile culture.