The Cost of Honoring Christ. Joseph, Nicodemus, and the Courage to Lose Esteem (John 19.32-38)
07 December 2025

The Cost of Honoring Christ. Joseph, Nicodemus, and the Courage to Lose Esteem (John 19.32-38)

"The Gospel for Living," with John Musgrave, M.Div.

About

In this powerful sermon on John 19:38-42, we explore the remarkable story of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus—two respected, yet fearful, Jewish leaders who risked everything to publicly honor Jesus after His crucifixion.

This message, geared toward Evangelical, Presbyterian, and Reformed believers, challenges us to consider: What is the true cost of discipleship when society is unkind to faith?

We dive deep into the meaning of their lavish gift of myrrh and aloes, revealing Jesus as the true King, Priest, and Tabernacle. Learn how to have the same assessment of Christ as Heaven, and find the courage to honor Jesus in your worship, care, and giving—even if it means losing the approval of your peers.


Key Takeaways & Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction: Why the World is Unkind to Believers (Matthew 5:10-12)

2:30 Joseph and Nicodemus: Respectable People Who Believe in Jesus (Luke 23:50-51)

5:15 Heaven's Assessment: Testimonies of the Father, Son, and Spirit (John 1:34, 15:26)

8:05 Why Disbelief Persists: A Lack of Care to Know God (Romans 1:19-28)

11:40 Jesus the King, Priest, and Tabernacle: The Significance of the Myrrh and Aloes (Exodus 30, Psalm 45)

15:00 How to Honor Jesus: Worshipping Him above all Else (John 5:22-23)

19:15 Honoring Christ through Care and Generous Giving (Isaiah 26:8, 2 Cor 9:7)

23:45 The Courage to Lose Esteem: Why Jesus is Worth More Than Your Reputation (Philippians 3:4-8)



Here’s the video @ https://youtu.be/Nyt_wfrr5IY


See other resources and teaching @ https://www.christchurchclayton.org/teaching


Watch other sermons in the Gospel of John series @ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLm8Dt3kxWQ8RVudN3VOk1teh6thzyAuJD


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#Worship #SecretDisciple #CourageousFaith #ChristianLiving #ChristIsKing #LosingEsteem

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