Nevertheless, many did believe in him even among the rulers, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, so that they would not be banned from the synagogue.
Listen to me, you who know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my instruction: do not fear disgrace by men, and do not be shattered by their taunts.
His parents said these things because they were afraid of the Jews, since the Jews had already agreed that if anyone confessed him as the Messiah, he would be banned from the synagogue.
After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus #– #but secretly because of his fear of the Jews #– #asked Pilate that he might remove Jesus’s body. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and took his body away.
This man came to him at night and said, ‘Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one could perform these signs you do unless God were with him.’
You who tremble at his word, hear the word of the Lord: ‘Your brothers who hate and exclude you for my name’s sake have said, “Let the Lord be glorified so that we can see your joy! ” But they will be put to shame.’
Who was it you dreaded and feared, so that you lied and didn’t remember me or take it to heart? I have kept silent for a long time, haven’t I? , So you do not fear me.
But King Zedekiah said to Jeremiah, ‘I am worried about the Judeans who have defected to the Chaldeans. They may hand me over to the Judeans to abuse me.’