47 And the centurion having seen what was done, did glorify God, saying, 'Really this man was righteous;' 48 and all the multitudes who were come together to this sight, beholding the things that came to pass, smiting their breasts did turn back; 49 and all his acquaintances stood afar off, and women who did follow him from Galilee, beholding these things.
50 And lo, a man, by name Joseph, being a counsellor, a man good and righteous, 51 —he was not consenting to their counsel and deed—from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who also himself was expecting the reign of God, 52 he, having gone near to Pilate, asked the body of Jesus, 53 and having taken it down, he wrapped it in fine linen, and placed it in a tomb hewn out, where no one was yet laid. 54 And the day was a preparation, and sabbath was approaching, 55 and the women also who have come with him out of Galilee having followed after, beheld the tomb, and how his body was placed, 56 and having turned back, they made ready spices and ointments, and on the sabbath, indeed, they rested, according to the command.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 23:47-56
Commentary on Luke 23:44-49
(Read Luke 23:44-49)
We have here the death of Christ magnified by the wonders that attended it, and his death explained by the words with which he breathed out his soul. He was willing to offer himself. Let us seek to glorify God by true repentance and conversion; by protesting against those who crucify the Saviour; by a sober, righteous, and godly life; and by employing our talents in the service of Him who died for us and rose again.
Commentary on Luke 23:50-56
(Read Luke 23:50-56)
Many, though they do not make any show in outward profession, yet, like Joseph of Arimathea, will be far more ready to do real service, when there is occasion, than others who make a greater noise. Christ was buried in haste, because the sabbath drew on. Weeping must not hinder sowing. Though they were in tears for the death of their Lord, yet they must prepare to keep holy the sabbath. When the sabbath draws on, there must be preparation. Our worldly affairs must be so ordered, that they may not hinder us from our sabbath work; and our holy affections so stirred up, that they may carry us on in it. In whatever business we engage, or however our hearts may be affected, let us never fail to get ready for, and to keep holy, the day of sacred rest, which is the Lord's day.