The Tomb Jesus Only Used for Three Days! Matthew 27:57-61

The Burial of Jesus

57 As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.

We meet another obscure figure in Jesus' last day, a man named Joseph, who came from Arimathea.  Apparently he was a man of influence as Pilate ordered the body be given to him.  We also know he was a man of means, as he already had purchased his own tomb cut out of the rock.  Customarily the Romans left crucified criminals on the cross to rot or be eaten by animals.  But the Jewish people did not want such horror displayed during the Passover season (Guzik)

Here is some good historical info regarding the nature of the tomb Joseph obtained.

"This was the customary way to seal an expensive tomb. A rich man like Joseph of Arimethea probably had a tomb carved into solid rock; this tomb was in a garden near the place of crucifixion (John 19:41). The tomb would commonly have a small entrance and perhaps one or more compartments where bodies were laid out after being somewhat mummified with spices, ointments, and linen strips. Customarily, the Jews left these bodies alone for a few years until they decayed down to the bones, then the bones were placed in a small stone box known as an ossuary. The ossuary remained in the tomb with the remains of other family members.The door to the tomb was typically made of a heavy, circular shaped stone, running in a groove and settled down into a channel, so it could not be moved except by several strong men. This was done to ensure that no one would disturb the remains."

This was an expensive gift Joseph gave to his Lord, and though Jesus would only need it for a few days, Joseph's act of devotion will be remembered forever.  There are many other legends associated with Joseph through various apochryphal books and literature, including his association with the Holy Grail develped through Arthurian legand in the 12th century. Regardless of these faniciful tales, the only certain evidence we have about who Joseph was and what he did for Jesus is found in all 4 gospels.

Mark tells us he was a respected member of the Jewish council. Luke tells us that he had not consented to their action. In John, Nicodemus is brought into the picture and brings spices to help give Jesus a proper burial.  We know Nicodemus is also a member of the Sanhedrin.  

What will you give back to Jesus in thanksgiving for what he did for you?  Maybe you can't buy him a tomb, but he has given you many ways to honor him with your possessions and your gifts!