Dead Bodies Must be Buried
Anton Bosch emphasizes the courage and faith of Joseph of Arimathea in honoring Jesus' body, illustrating the call for believers to identify with Christ's cross and live justly while awaiting God's kingdom.
This sermon delves into the events surrounding the burial of Jesus, focusing on the actions of Joseph of Arimathea and the significance of burying the old life. It emphasizes the importance of truly dying to the old self and burying sinful habits and lifestyles in order to fully embrace the new life in Christ. The burial of Jesus confirms his death and serves as a symbol for believers to put away the old self completely.
Sermon Outline
-
I. The Role and Character of Joseph of Arimathea
- Member of the Sanhedrin who did not consent to Jesus' condemnation
- A good and just man awaiting the kingdom of God
- Trusted by Pilate to take Jesus' body down from the cross
-
II. The Significance of Proper Burial
- Biblical law requires bodies not to remain on the cross
- Joseph's act as an expression of faith and respect
- The contrast between worldly rejection and faithful remnant
-
III. Identifying with the Cross and Kingdom
- Embracing Jesus' brokenness as part of discipleship
- Living justly as a reflection of kingdom anticipation
- The necessity of standing up publicly for Christ
-
IV. The Remnant and the Call to Faithful Living
- God always preserves a faithful remnant
- The church today often neglects true devotion to Jesus
- Believers must look beyond this life to the coming kingdom
Key Quotes
“You cannot identify with him in his glory if you will not identify with him in his shame.” — Anton Bosch
“Joseph is a good and a just man, who had not consented to their decision and deed.” — Anton Bosch
“If we believe in the coming of the Lord Jesus, it must change the way that we live.” — Anton Bosch
Application Points
- Stand courageously for Christ even when it is unpopular or risky.
- Live a just and righteous life as a reflection of your hope in God's kingdom.
- Embrace both the suffering and glory of Jesus in your walk of faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Joseph of Arimathea?
Joseph was a respected member of the Jewish council who did not agree with Jesus' condemnation and courageously asked Pilate for Jesus' body to bury it properly.
Why is the burial of Jesus significant?
Proper burial fulfilled Jewish law and demonstrated respect and faith in Jesus, affirming His identity as the Messiah despite rejection by many.
What does it mean to identify with the cross?
It means embracing Jesus' suffering and shame as part of discipleship, not just celebrating His resurrection and glory.
How does awaiting the kingdom of God affect Christian living?
Believers who anticipate God's kingdom live justly and righteously, allowing that hope to shape their behavior and decisions.
What lesson can we learn from the remnant who remained faithful?
Even when many reject Christ, God preserves a faithful few, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith.