Active Faith: Joseph of Arimathea (Mark 15:42–47)
Throughout life, we meet many kinds of people. Some speak confidently as if they could take responsibility for anything, yet when hardship comes, they quietly disappear. The same pattern often appears in faith. Many profess to believe in God, but when trials come, the true nature of that faith is revealed. Scripture warns of those who “have a form of godliness but deny its power” (2 Timothy 3:5) and reminds us that “faith without deeds is dead” (James 2:17).
Mark 15:42–47 paints this contrast vividly. After Jesus’ death on the cross, where were His disciples? Though they had vowed, “Even if I have to die with You, I will never disown You” (Mark 14:31), when suffering came, they all fled. Peter even denied knowing Jesus three times, swearing under oath (Mark 14:71). Yet in the same moment, another man stepped forward—Joseph of Arimathea.
The Gospel records:
“Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.)” (Mark 15:43, NLT)
Joseph was wealthy (Matthew 27:57), respected, and described as “a good and righteous man” (Luke 23:50). He had disagreed with the religious leaders’ decision to condemn Jesus (Luke 23:51). Despite his position and the danger it posed, he boldly identified himself as a disciple. Mark emphasizes that he approached Pilate boldly—not merely with courage, but with faith that moved into action.
This act was more than a moment of devotion. Joseph became the instrument through whom God fulfilled prophecy: “He was buried like a rich man” (Isaiah 53:9). God accomplishes His redemptive work through those whose faith does not waver.
True faith is never static. It is not limited to words, emotions, or private convictions—it is made visible in obedience and devotion. A living faith bears fruit in life. That is why Scripture calls us to reject hollow belief that speaks loudly but lives timidly. The faith that pleases God is one that acts—even when it costs us something, even when it is hard.
Like Joseph of Arimathea, those who have truly encountered Christ must value His will and kingdom above personal comfort or worldly gain. The grace that gives birth to faith must also give birth to devotion. When faith becomes obedience in the ordinary moments of life, it becomes a living testimony of the gospel.
We need this faith in our daily settings. When we choose love and service in our homes, when we show integrity and diligence in our workplaces, when we offer quiet acts of encouragement within our church communities—each of these becomes an expression of faith. Through such small obediences, God turns our lives into worship.
Active faith does not always begin with grand decisions or dramatic acts. It takes shape in the repeated, simple choices of each day. The faith that God delights in is not merely spoken—it is lived, steadfast and unwavering, in the places where we stand today.
About Author
Choi Jong Eui
Pastor, teacher, and writer committed to connecting Christian faith with everyday life. He writes with the hope of praising the Lord and faithfully completing the mission entrusted to him, bearing good fruit to the glory of God.
