uʍop-ǝpᴉsd∩ Fear

Hear is a link to last week’s devotional series, Upside down.

“They made his grave with the wicked, and with a rich man in his death…”

Isaiah 53:9

I have a question for you to consider regarding spiritual courage.

If you live in the free world, how much courage could it possibly take to just believe in Jesus?

You know. Silently.

I guess the next question would be, can you believe silently? Or should you?

Everyone therefore who confesses me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 10:32-33 (WEB)

So, while you think about those things, let’s take a look at one definite believer and one seeker in today’s devotion from the John 19.

Both were almost certainly afraid. Both had a lot to lose, including their positions, wealth, and status in the community, not to mention their lives.

Whether you are a believer or not you have probably heard of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus.

We know from scripture that Joseph (John 19:37) was a follower of Jesus’. He was devoted believer, and he had found grace.

Nicodemus was a seeker. We don’t know his outcome. We certainly hope that he gave his heart to Jesus.

If deeds were any proof, his certainly eventually passed muster. But no one finds redemption through their own goodness. I hope that he discovered his answers by faith. (John 3:16)

Joseph’s courage began to be revealed the closer Christ came to the cross. Maybe he had that courage from the moment he believed.

I think sometimes our silence is useful. You know, in the place where we are for the moment. But silence about faith should only last until the Spirit of God urges us forward.

In Joseph’s case his silence was appropriate. You know this if you have read his story.

What is fascinating about Joseph is how God guided his life. God was guiding Joseph long before his first encounter with Jesus. Luke 23:50-51 tells us about Joseph’s character and echoes Isaiah’s ancient prophecy.

Behold, there was a man named Joseph, who was a member of the council, a good and righteous man (he had not consented to their counsel and deed), from Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who was also waiting for God’s Kingdom.

Luke 23:50-51 (WEB)

This verse also reminds us that Joseph was looking for Jesus because of God’s promise. He probably did not realize that his future was a part of the prophecy from Isaiah.

So, it follows that the courage that developed in Joseph’s heart came from God.

“Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them, for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 (WEB)

The curiosity that caused Nicodemus to seek Jesus came from the Spirit of God.

People never just start looking for God. Our sin nature pulls us to reject Him. It is God’s kindness and the gentle tug of the Holy Spirit that draws people toward grace. (Romans 2:4)

God’s Holy Spirit gives devoted believers the courage and conviction to speak boldly about their faith.

“… preach God’s Kingdom and teach the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.”

Acts 28:30 & 31 (WEB-Paraphrased)

Yet God does not force belief, courage, or devotion. Love is never coerced.

So how do we join Joseph in deep devotion for our Lord?

 “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,

for I am gentle and humble in heart;

and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:29 (WEB)

Take a moment to read about the monetary sacrifice of Joseph, who offered a costly unused tomb. Also see how Nicodemus provided the burial spices and clothes. Witness their courage as they approached Pilate to request the Savior’s body at great personal risk, demonstrating tender love and reverence in preparing Jesus’ body for burial.

But never forget. It was God’s grace that provided salvation. Bible heroes and faithful heroes of today can only ever stand on the courage and the sacrifice of Jesus.

Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I’m found
Was blind, but now I see¹

John only uses the word believe once in this passage, bringing our total to 96 in these nineteen chapters of the Gospel. You can read it below in verse thirty-five.

He who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, that you may believe.

John 19:35 (WEB)

World English Bible (WEB)

by Public Domain. The name “World English Bible” is trademarked.

1. Amazing Grace
   John Newton
   Ca. 1779
   Public Domain ↩︎