Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus
Scripture: John 19:30–42 (CEB)
Part of the Witness at the Cross Lenten series 

What does it take to step out of the shadows and live your faith openly?

In this week’s sermon, we encounter two men who come forward in the final moments after Jesus’ death—Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. One has believed in secret, held back by fear. The other is still on a journey of faith, full of questions and uncertainty. Yet both show up when it matters most.

Drawing on the Gospel of John and insights from Witness at the Cross by Amy-Jill Levine, we reflect on the different ways people come to faith—and how God meets us in each place along the journey.

Joseph’s story reminds us that it is never too late to find the courage to step forward. Nicodemus shows us that faith doesn’t require having everything figured out, but simply a willingness to seek, to question, and to show up.

Together, they bear witness to a love that cannot remain hidden.

This story invites us to consider where we are being called to respond—to move from fear to courage, from silence to action, and to create space for others who are still finding their way.

🌀 Reflection Questions

• Joseph of Arimathea believed in Jesus for years but kept his faith hidden out of fear. When has fear kept you a secret disciple?
 • What did you witness at the cross, in this worship series, that has moved you from silence toward courage?
 • Who in your life is a Nicodemus—someone seeking understanding and faith in God? How can you support them on their journey?

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