Luke 23:51
(The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.
Luke 23:51
Luke adds a critical note: “The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them” and identifies Joseph as from Arimathaea, a city of the Jews, “who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.” This clarifies Joseph’s personal stance against the council’s plot, emphasizing moral independence and faithful obedience. By calling out his non-consent, Luke highlights the presence of righteous dissent within the highest political-religious structures of the time. The phrase “waited for the kingdom of God” signals eschatological longing—the expectation that God would establish his rule. This context helps readers appreciate the tension between earthly power and divine sovereignty. The specific mention of Arimathea also helps readers connect Jesus’ burial to a real, recognizable location and community, reinforcing the historical credibility of the gospel narrative.
Joseph’s contrast with the council’s decision reinforces the theme that God’s purposes often unfold through faithful individuals who resist corrupt systems. Theologically, the insistence on waiting for the kingdom anchors the Christian hope in God’s coming reign rather than human political schemes. The burial act is not mere logistics; it is a sacramental moment where the body of Jesus is laid to rest in a tomb, anticipating the resurrection. Luke’s emphasis on righteous dissent serves as a model for readers: true allegiance to Jesus sometimes requires standing apart from the crowd and acting with integrity and courage.
If you find yourself in a position of influence, resist the crowd when it pursues unworthy or unjust ends. Practical steps: cultivate discernment through prayer, seek wise counsel, and be willing to stand apart from popularity when truth and justice demand it. In family, workplace, or civic life, you might be called to advocate for vulnerable people or to protect the weak from harm—knowing it may cost you reputation or comfort. The encouragement here is to align your actions with God’s kingdom priorities, not the world’s.
Cross-References: Acts 7:59-60; Luke 3:15; Matthew 27:57-60; Mark 15:43; John 19:38