See the Matthew 27:57-61 notes; Mark 15:42-47 notes.

Joseph of Arimathea - See the notes on Matthew 27:57-60 (note), and those especially on Mark 15:43 (note).

And behold, there was a man named Joseph,.... See Gill on Matthew 27:57.

a counsellor; Mark says, he was an "honourable" one; he was either one of the council of the high priest, or a member of the great sanhedrim; See Gill on Mark 15:43.

and he was a good man, and a just; he was kind and beneficent in his temper, and just, and righteous in his life and actions; a like character is given of Joseph the husband of Mary, the mother of our Lord, Matthew 1:19.

Councillor

See on Mark 15:43. Matthew calls him rich; Mark, honorable; Luke, good and just.

{17} And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counsellor; and he was a good man, and a just:

(17) Christ, through his well known burial, confirms both the truth of his death as well as his resurrection, by the plain and evident witness of Pilate.

23:50-56 The Burial of Jesus, see notes on Mt 27:57-61. Compare Mr 15:42-47 Joh 19:36-42.

A counsellor. A member of the Sanhedrin.

23:50 Mt 27:57; Mr 15:43; Joh 19:38.

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.