47 Now the centurion, seeing what took place, glorified God, saying, In very deed this man was just. 48 And all the crowds who had come together to that sight, having seen the things that took place, returned, beating [their] breasts. 49 And all those who knew him stood afar off, the women also who had followed him from Galilee, beholding these things.
50 And behold, a man named Joseph, who was a councillor, a good man and a just 51 (this [man] had not assented to their counsel and deed), of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews, who also waited, [himself also,] for the kingdom of God 52 —he having gone to Pilate begged the body of Jesus; 53 and having taken it down, wrapped it in fine linen and placed him in a tomb hewn in the rock, where no one had ever been laid. 54 And it was preparation day, and [the] sabbath twilight was coming on. 55 And women, who had come along with him out of Galilee, having followed, saw the sepulchre and how his body was placed. 56 And having returned they prepared aromatic spices and ointments, and remained quiet on the sabbath, according to the commandment.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 23:47-56
Commentary on Luke 23:44-49
(Read Luke 23:44-49)
We have here the death of Christ magnified by the wonders that attended it, and his death explained by the words with which he breathed out his soul. He was willing to offer himself. Let us seek to glorify God by true repentance and conversion; by protesting against those who crucify the Saviour; by a sober, righteous, and godly life; and by employing our talents in the service of Him who died for us and rose again.
Commentary on Luke 23:50-56
(Read Luke 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.