Sermonette: The Secret Disciples
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus
#1813-AMs
Ted E. Bowling
Given 13-Apr-25; 18 minutes
description: This offertory message explores the too often overlooked courage of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, both high-ranking Jewish leaders who initially approached Jesus in secret, becoming secret or stealth disciples of Our Lord and Savior. After Christ's crucifixion, they boldly stepped out on faith risking their positions and lives at a time Christ's disciples had fled for their lives. Joseph of Arimathea, a respected, wealthy member of the Sanhedrin, secured a tomb for Jesus, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of the Messiah being buried in a wealthy man's tomb. Nicodemus, who previously had secretly and fearfully visited Jesus in the dark of the night, now boldly and courageously brought burial spices, honoring Jesus with a royal burial for a king. Their bold behavior reminds all of God's chosen saints that we must similarly demonstrate courageous, bold, public action proving the veracity of their faith.