Chapter 11—At the Sepulcher
Treason against the Roman government was the alleged crime for
which Jesus was executed, and persons to death for this offense were
taken down by the common soldiers and consigned to a burial ground
reserved exclusively for that class of criminals who had suffered the
extreme penalty of the law.
John was at a loss to know what measures he should take in regard
to the body of his beloved Master. He shuddered at the thought of
its being handled by rough and unfeeling soldiers, and placed in a
dishonored burial place. He knew he could obtain no favors from the
Jewish authorities, and he could hope little from Pilate. But Joseph
and Nicodemus came to the front in this emergency. Both of these men
were members of the Sanhedrim, and acquainted with Pilate. Both
were men of wealth and influence. They were determined that the
body of Jesus should have an honorable burial.
Joseph went boldly to Pilate, and begged from him the body of
Jesus for burial. His prayer was speedily granted by Pilate, who firmly
believed Jesus to have been innocent. Pilate now for the first time
heard from Joseph that Jesus was really dead. The knowledge had
been purposely kept from him, although various conflicting reports had
reached his ears concerning the strange events attending the crucifixion.
Now he learned that the Saviour died at the very moment when the
mysterious darkness that enshrouded the earth had passed away. Pilate
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was surprised that Jesus had died so soon; for those who were crucified
frequently lingered days upon the cross. The account which Pilate now
received of the death of Jesus caused him more firmly to believe that
he was no ordinary man. The Roman governor was strangely agitated,
and regretted most keenly the part he had taken in the condemnation
of the Saviour.
The priests and rulers had charged Pilate and his officers to guard
against any deception which the disciples of Jesus might attempt to
practice upon them in regard to the body of their Master. Pilate,
therefore, before granting the request of Joseph, sent for the centurion
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