What does John 19:38 mean?
As in any large group, there was diversity among Jerusalem's religious leaders. Not every member rejected Christ's claims. Nicodemus, who came to speak to Jesus in private (John 3:1–2), was a Pharisee and member of the ruling council. He is an example of a traditional leader who maintained a sincere interest in truth (John 7:51). Most likely, such men were deliberately excluded from the hasty, secret midnight meeting which condemned Jesus to death (Matthew 26:57–59; Luke 23:50–51).Joseph of Arimathea is one of these spiritually open religious leaders. His sincerity does not translate to courage. While Nicodemus was at least willing to challenge his peers (John 7:51), we have no public expressions from Joseph until after Jesus is dead. His fear is understandable, given the hardened views of most of the council (John 9:22) and their murderous approach to Jesus' ministry (John 11:48–53).
On the other hand, associating with Jesus after His death is still a risky choice (John 20:19). Joseph's nerve might have come about late (Mark 15:43), but his act demonstrates compassion and bravery. He will be joined by the other known religious leader who believes in Christ, Nicodemus (John 19:39), as they bury Jesus in Joseph's own tomb (Matthew 27:59). The abnormality of a poor man (Matthew 8:20) being buried in the extravagant crypt of a rich leader (John 19:41) is also a fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 53:9).
John 19:38–42 describes Jesus' hasty burial. A member of the Jewish leadership and secret follower of Jesus, Joseph, gets permission to bury Jesus. He works with Nicodemus, who has also been secretive about his faith. They quickly wrap Jesus in grave cloths and place Him in a borrowed tomb. Parallel passages are Matthew 27:57–61, Mark 15:42–47, and Luke 23:50–56.
Pilate recognizes Jesus' innocence, but fears the mob assembled by Jewish religious leaders. He attempts to satisfy them by having Jesus viciously whipped and mocked. This only results in more cries for Jesus' death. The governor then shifts to protect his own reputation, ordering Jesus to be crucified on a charge of being "King of the Jews." John is directly present as Jesus is executed. He notes the fulfillment of several prophecies as Jesus dies. Once He is confirmed to be dead, Jesus' body is taken by two friendly members of the ruling council. They hastily bury Him in the borrowed crypt of a rich man.
