Mark 15:43

The shortness of time evidently spurred Joseph into action (cf. Deuteronomy 21:23). The location of Arimathea is questionable, but it may have been the same as Ramah (Ramathaim), the birthplace of Samuel, about 5 miles north of Jerusalem. [Note: The New Bible Dictionary, 1962 ed., s.v. "Arimathaea," by J. W. Meiklejohn.] Joseph was a prominent member of the Sanhedrin. Mark’s description of him as one who was waiting for the kingdom of God presents him as a devout Jew. He had become a believer in Jesus (John 19:38). Mark’s original readers were citizens of Caesar’s kingdom, but they were also waiting for the kingdom of God. Mark stressed the courage that Joseph mustered to make his request. Joseph’s bold action would have inspired Mark’s readers to take a stand for Jesus too. Joseph had to gather up his courage since he faced much opposition on the council. Likewise Mark’s Roman readers would have had to summon their courage to side with Jesus against powerful officials who opposed Him.