Bible Reading: Romans 6:1-8 KJV
- Romans 6:4 KJV
The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ are central to Christian faith and theology. However, the events surrounding Jesus' burial are often overlooked, despite their critical role in our understanding of salvation. In this article, we will explore the importance of Jesus' burial as described in the Bible.
Jesus' Burial: A Sign of His Humanity
In Matthew 27:57-60 (KJV), we read about the burial of Jesus, "When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed."
This passage highlights the humanity of Jesus by showing that He, like many humans, was physically buried after his crucifixion. His burial in a tomb signifies his physical death, which is a necessary component of the atonement for our sins.
Jesus' Burial: A Sign of His Completed Work on the Cross
The burial of Jesus also serves as a powerful reminder that his work on the cross was complete and in John 19:38-42 (KJV), we read about these burial preparations. "And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand."
The careful preparation and burial of Jesus' body demonstrated the respect and dignity with which his death was treated. This further emphasizes the completed nature of his work on the cross, as it was a finished act that needed no further sacrifice.
Jesus' Burial: A Prelude to His Resurrection
Finally, the burial of Jesus serves as a prelude to his resurrection, which is the ultimate confirmation of his divine nature and the power of his sacrifice. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (KJV), Paul writes, "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures."
The burial of Jesus is a crucial step in the sequence of events leading to his resurrection. It demonstrates that Jesus truly died and was buried, and his subsequent resurrection on the third day confirms the power of his sacrifice to overcome death and sin. The burial of Jesus Christ plays a vital role in our understanding of salvation. It serves as a sign of his humanity, a reminder of the completion of his work on the cross, and a prelude to his resurrection.
Conclusion
The Bible teaches us that Jesus' burial is an essential part of God's plan for our salvation. It signifies His complete submission to the Father's will and His victory over death, making it possible for us to experience new life in Him. As we continue to study the Scriptures and grow in our faith, let us always remember the significance of Jesus' burial and its role in our salvation.
