Luke 23:50-52

Luke presented Joseph as a member of the Sanhedrin who was a believer in Jesus. Luke did not stress Joseph’s wealth (Matthew 27:57) but his piety (cf. Luke 2:25-38). Here is another indication that Jesus was innocent. Even one of the Sanhedrin members believed in Him. Evidently Joseph was absent when the Sanhedrin voted to condemn Jesus since their vote was unanimous (Luke 22:70; Mark 14:64). Not all Israel’s leaders opposed Jesus. This notation would have encouraged Luke’s original readers to view Christianity favorably. It would also have helped them realize that it is possible to believe in Jesus and be part of a group that rejects Him. Joseph’s desire for Jesus’ body indicated his intention to give it a decent burial and so honor Jesus.