1 Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him.
2 And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe.
3 They came up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands.
4 Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.”
5 So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!”
6 When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Jesus said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.”
7 The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has made himself the Son of God.”
8 When Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid.
9 He entered his headquarters again and said to Jesus, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave him no answer.
10 So Pilate said to him, “You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you?”
11 Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin.”
12 From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, “If you release this man, you are not Caesar’s friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.”
13 So when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Stone Pavement, and in Aramaic Gabbatha.
14 Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover.
15 They cried out, “Away with him, away with him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.”
16 So he delivered him over to them to be crucified.
17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha.
18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them.
19 Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.”
20 Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek.
21 So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but rather, ‘This man said, I am King of the Jews.’”
22 Pilate answered, “What I have written I have written.”
23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom.
24 so they said to one another, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.” This was to fulfill the Scripture which says, “They divided my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.” So the soldiers did these things,
25 but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!”
27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.”
29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth.
30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
31 Since it was the day of Preparation, and so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken away.
32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him.
33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs.
34 But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water.
35 He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he is telling the truth—that you also may believe.
36 For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.”
37 And again another Scripture says, “They will look on him whom they have pierced.”
38 After these things Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body.
39 Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight.
40 They took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews.
41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid.
42 So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.
The True Meaning of John 19
This chapter of the Gospel of John provides a detailed account of the final hours of Jesus’s life, leading up to his crucifixion. The author, John, was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus and an eyewitness to the events described. We witness the trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, and the subsequent events that unfold, culminating in the Savior’s death on the cross in this passage. The chapter highlights the fulfillment of prophecies from the Old Testament, such as the piercing of Jesus’s side, which was foretold in the book of Zechariah. Our Lord’s immense sacrifice had a profound impact on the course of human history, reminding us as we delve into this solemn chapter. The events described here are not only a testament to the unwavering faith of Jesus but also a testament to the power of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
John 19:1-3
The verses in John 19:1-3 describe the events that unfold after Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified. Firstly, we see that Pilate had Jesus scourged. Scourging was a brutal form of punishment where the condemned person was whipped with a multi-tailed whip typically embedded with metal or bone fragments. This act of scourging was not only physically torturous but also served as a way to humiliate and degrade the individual being punished. Jesus endured immense suffering and humiliation in this context for the sake of humanity.
The soldiers then proceed to mock Jesus by placing a crown of thorns on his head and dressing him in a purple robe. The crown of thorns was significant as it was a twisted representation of the crown of royalty, meant to mock Jesus’ claim as the King of the Jews. The purple robe further added to the mockery, as purple was a color associated with royalty. This scene is a stark reminder of how the world often views and treats those who come to proclaim a message of truth and salvation, turning it into an object of ridicule and contempt.
The soldiers, in their cruel actions, unknowingly fulfill prophecies that had been foretold long before this event. For instance, in Isaiah 53:5, it is prophesied that the Messiah would be pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. The crown of thorns can be seen as a symbol of the sins of humanity and the robe as a symbol of the royalty that truly belonged to Jesus as the Son of God. This betrayal and ridicule of Jesus serves as a poignant reminder of how easily humanity can reject and mistreat the divine, even in the presence of overwhelming evidence of His love and authority. These verses in John 19:1-3 ultimately serve as a powerful depiction of the suffering and humiliation Jesus endured on the path to the cross. It highlights the cruelty of humanity and the depth of love that led Jesus to willingly endure such pain and mockery for the redemption of all. Through these events, the message of forgiveness, humility, and sacrificial love shines brightly, challenging us to reflect on how we treat others and to remember the immense price that was paid for our salvation.
John 19:4-7
Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.”’ So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, ‘Behold the man!’ When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, ‘Crucify him, crucify him!’ Pilate said to them, ‘Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.’ The Jews answered him, ‘We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has made himself the Son of God. Pilate attempts to release Jesus in this section of the chapter because he found no wrongdoing in Him. Pilate’s declaration of Jesus’ innocence is essential as it underscores the fulfillment of prophecies that Jesus was to be the sinless sacrifice for humanity’s sins. The image of Jesus wearing a crown of thorns and a purple robe symbolizes the mockery and humiliation He endured before His crucifixion. This act of dressing Jesus in such a manner highlights the contrast between earthly power and the true kingship of Jesus, whose kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36).
The dialogue between Pilate, the chief priests, and the officers reveals the rejection of Jesus by the religious authorities of that time. Despite Pilate’s attempts to release Jesus, the crowd’s insistence on crucifying Him shows the depth of their hatred and the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy that He would be despised and rejected by men (Isaiah 53:3). The mention of Jesus claiming to be the Son of God infuriates the Jews, as they believe it to be blasphemy deserving of death. This reaction serves as a pivotal point, emphasizing the divine nature of Jesus and the necessity for His sacrificial death to fulfill God’s plan of salvation. These verses shine a light on the role of Jesus as the Messiah and the Lamb of God, whose sacrificial death would bring redemption and forgiveness to all who believe in Him (John 1:29). This passage in John 19:4-7 serves as a crucial moment in the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion, depicting the clash between earthly powers and divine purposes. It showcases the rejection, mockery, and disbelief Jesus faced, leading up to His ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins. The rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders and the crowd underscores the spiritual blindness and hardness of heart that Jesus came to address and ultimately conquer through His death and resurrection. This scene sets the stage for the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry and the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan for mankind.
John 19:8-11
We need to break down and explore several important sections in John 19:8-11 to understand the full impact of these verses in the context of Jesus’ crucifixion and the timeless messages they convey.
Firstly, in verse 8, we see a conversation taking place between Pilate, the Roman governor, and Jesus. Pilate is questioning Jesus about his identity and authority, to which Jesus remains silent. Pilate, being a man of authority in the political realm, is confused and frustrated by Jesus’ lack of response. This interaction reveals the stark contrast between earthly power and divine authority. Jesus, the Son of God, possesses a higher form of authority that Pilate cannot comprehend. This scene serves as a powerful reminder of the worlds colliding – the heavenly kingdom versus the earthly kingdom. It shows that true power and authority come from God, not from man-made systems or structures.
Moving on to verses 9 and 10, we witness Pilate’s continued attempt to assert his authority over Jesus. He reminds Jesus that he has the power to release or crucify Him, urging Jesus to speak up and defend Himself. Jesus delivers a profound statement in response, asserting that Pilate only has authority over Him because it was given to him from above. This statement highlights the divine orchestration behind Jesus’ crucifixion. Despite the apparent control that Pilate and the Roman authorities think they have over the situation, it is ultimately part of God’s plan for Jesus to be crucified for the redemption of humanity. This moment serves as a powerful reminder that God is sovereign over all things, including the actions of earthly rulers.
Finally, in verse 11, Jesus reaffirms that the one who handed Him over to Pilate bears greater guilt than Pilate himself. Here, Jesus acknowledges the role of Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him, in the events leading up to His crucifixion. Judas’ betrayal is a significant part of the narrative of Jesus’ arrest and trial, illustrating the theme of human betrayal and the fulfillment of prophecy. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of betraying trust and the weight of guilt that comes with it. It also underscores the idea that ultimately, God’s plan will prevail, despite the actions of individuals who may seek to disrupt it. John 19:8-11 provides a deep insight into the dynamics of power, authority, betrayal, and divine purpose surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion. It highlights the clash between heavenly and earthly realms, the sovereignty of God over human affairs, and the fulfillment of prophecy through the actions of both faithful and treacherous individuals. These verses invite us to reflect on the intricate tapestry of God’s plan unfolding through history and the profound sacrificial love of Jesus in fulfilling that plan for the salvation of humanity.
John 19:12-16
Several significant sections can be identified in John 19:12-16. The first key point is when Pilate makes attempts to release Jesus but faces opposition from the Jewish leaders. Pilate’s desire to release Jesus is a notable moment because it underscores his recognition of Jesus’ innocence. Despite finding no basis for charges against Jesus, Pilate encountered resistance from the Jewish leaders who were adamant about crucifying Jesus. This conflict illuminates the political dynamics at play, as Pilate, the Roman governor, faced pressure from the influential Jewish religious leaders who wielded power over the people.
The dialogue between Pilate and the Jewish leaders also showcases the contrasting perspectives on Jesus’ identity. While Pilate saw no fault in Jesus, the religious leaders viewed Him as a threat to their authority and as a blasphemer deserving of death. This clash of perceptions underscores the spiritual battle that was taking place, with contrasting interpretations of Jesus’ nature and mission. The insistence of the Jewish leaders to have Jesus crucified highlights their hardened hearts and refusal to accept Him as the Son of God, despite the miracles and teachings that testified to His divinity.
Furthermore, the mention of the crowd incites a sobering reflection on the fickleness of human nature. The same people who had acclaimed Jesus during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem were now swayed by the influence of the religious leaders to demand His crucifixion. This shift in public sentiment serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of following popular opinion without discernment or conviction. It prompts readers to examine their own faith and convictions, urging them to stand firm in the truth even in the face of opposition or changing circumstances.
The handing over of Jesus to be crucified is a pivotal moment in the narrative, marking the culmination of His earthly ministry and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan. We witness Jesus’s obedience to the Father’s will and sacrificial love for humanity as He willingly submits to the authorities and embarks on the path to the cross. This act of surrender underscores the themes of selflessness, redemption, and atonement that resonate throughout the Bible, culminating in Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of mankind. John 19:12-16 captures not only the historical account of Jesus’ trial and crucifixion but also conveys timeless truths about human nature, faith, obedience, and the enduring power of God’s love in light of these profound themes and events. It serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of discipleship, the sovereignty of God, and the transformative impact of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross.这是您要找的评论吗？
John 19:17-22
The section of John 19:17-22 narrates a crucial moment during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. At the beginning of these verses, we see Jesus bearing His own cross and heading to Golgotha, the place of the Skull, where He would be crucified. This act of carrying His cross symbolizes the burden of sin that Jesus carried for all of humanity. It is a profound moment depicting the love and sacrifice of Christ, willingly shouldering the weight of the world’s transgressions to offer redemption and salvation to all who believe in Him.
Upon arriving at the place of crucifixion, Jesus is nailed to the cross. The act of crucifixion was a common form of Roman execution reserved for the most despised criminals. Jesus endured immense physical pain and suffering in this brutal and torturous method of death. However, beyond the physical agony, the crucifixion also symbolizes the spiritual redemption and atonement that Christ brought through His sacrifice. Jesus shed His blood on the cross as the ultimate payment for the sins of humanity, fulfilling the prophecy of the Messiah who would die for the salvation of all.
One striking detail in these verses is the inscription placed on the cross above Jesus. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” This inscription was written in three languages: Hebrew, Latin, and Greek, ensuring that it was understood by all who passed by. The title “King of the Jews” was meant to mock Jesus and ridicule His claim to kingship. However, unknowingly, this inscription carried a deep truth – Jesus is indeed the King not only of the Jews but of all creation. This ironic title highlights the irony and paradox of the crucifixion, where the world’s true King was crucified as a criminal. The Gospel of Matthew shows a similar account of the inscription on the cross, with additional details about the chief priests’ objection to the wording. They wanted it to say, “He said, ‘I am the King of the Jews.’” However, Pilate insisted on the original wording. This interaction reflects the political and religious tensions surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion. The religious leaders sought to undermine Jesus’ authority, while Pilate, though reluctant, affirmed Jesus’ kingship through the inscription on the cross, perhaps unknowingly fulfilling a deeper spiritual truth. The verses in John 19:17-22 encapsulate the pivotal moment of Jesus’ crucifixion, emphasizing His sacrificial love, the atonement for sin, and the paradoxical nature of His kingship. It reminds us of the profound depth of Christ’s sacrifice and the ultimate victory He achieved over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.
John 19:23-24
The soldiers crucified Jesus and took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. ‘Let’s not tear it,’ they said to one another. ‘Let’s decide by lot who will get it.’ This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled that said, ‘They divided my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.’ So this is what the soldiers did.”
The importance of these verses lies in the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy found in Psalm 22:18, which foretold the soldiers dividing Jesus’ garments and casting lots for his clothing. This act underscores Jesus’ fulfillment of messianic prophecies and his divine purpose in offering himself as a sacrifice for humanity’s sins. The seamless garment symbolizes the unity of Christ, highlighting his unblemished nature and singular purpose in providing salvation for all. The soldiers callously dividing Jesus’ belongings reflects their indifference and lack of understanding surrounding the profound significance of Jesus’ sacrifice. While they engage in a mundane task of dividing His clothes, unaware of the gravity of the event unfolding before them, it serves as a stark contrast to the spiritual and eternal ramifications of Jesus’ crucifixion for humanity.
This event also echoes the theme of betrayal and rejection that runs through the Bible. From Joseph being sold by his brothers for pieces of silver (Genesis 37:28) to Judas betraying Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16), the act of dividing garments and casting lots serves as a poignant reminder of humanity’s propensity to prioritize material gain over spiritual understanding and compassion. Believers reflect on these verses, reminding them of the selfless sacrifice Jesus made on the cross, enduring humiliation and suffering to offer redemption and reconciliation to all who believe in Him. It prompts introspection on how one values material possessions over the eternal gifts of grace, mercy, and salvation freely offered through Jesus Christ. The seamless garment serves as a powerful symbol of Christ’s unifying love and purpose, calling believers to embrace and embody that same unity and selflessness in their lives.
John 19:25-27
The verse in John 19:25-27 reads, “His mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene stood near the cross of Jesus.” When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, ‘Woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. We witness the poignant interaction between Jesus, His mother Mary, and the beloved disciple, traditionally believed to be John the Apostle, in this significant moment at the crucifixion of Jesus. Despite His excruciating suffering on the cross, Jesus demonstrates his compassion and concern for His mother’s welfare. It’s essential to understand the cultural context of the time; in ancient Jewish society, caring for one’s parents, especially widowed mothers, was a vital responsibility. Jesus fulfills this duty by entrusting Mary to the care of the disciple He loved, ensuring her well-being after His departure.
This scene not only showcases Jesus’ deep love and consideration for His mother but also emphasizes the importance of community and familial connections in Christian life. Jesus establishes a new family unit among believers by assigning Mary to the care of John, illustrating that faith in Christ creates bonds that are even stronger than biological ties. This act highlights the fundamental principle of love and support within the Christian community, promoting a sense of unity, responsibility, and care for one another.
Furthermore, this moment also foreshadows the establishment of the Church, where believers are called to love and care for one another as a spiritual family. It echoes the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 12:48-50, where He redefines family relationships based on faith in Him, stating, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers? Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
Additionally, the presence of Mary Magdalene at the cross is noteworthy. Mary Magdalene is a prominent figure in the Gospels, known for her deep devotion to Jesus. She witnessed His crucifixion, burial, and ultimately, His resurrection. Her steadfast faith and loyalty to Jesus despite the circumstances serve as a powerful example for all believers. Mary Magdalene’s role in this scene underscores the significance of unwavering faith and the transformative power of encountering Christ in one’s life, even amidst immense suffering and sorrow. The interaction between Jesus, Mary, and the beloved disciple in John 19:25-27 conveys profound truths about love, community, and the redemptive power of Christ’s sacrifice. It emphasizes the importance of caring for one another, redefines familial relationships in the context of faith, and exemplifies the sacrificial love that Christ demonstrated on the cross for all humanity.
John 19:28-30
Jesus said, “I am thirsty,” later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, in John 19:28-30.’ A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”
The first significant aspect to highlight is Jesus’ statement, “I am thirsty.” This moment illuminates both the humanity and the divinity of Jesus. Jesus acknowledges His physical thirst in the midst of excruciating pain on the cross. This simple statement underscores that while Jesus was fully God, He was also fully human, experiencing the same physical needs and suffering that we do. This demonstrates His willingness to undergo every aspect of human existence, including thirst and pain, to fulfill His redemptive purpose. This act of expressing His thirst also fulfills the prophecy in Psalm 69:21, where it says, “They put gall in my food and gave me vinegar for my thirst.”
The offering of wine vinegar on a sponge, lifted to Jesus’ lips on a stalk of the hyssop plant, is a poignant moment. Hyssop was commonly used in the Old Testament for ceremonial cleansing, symbolizing purification and forgiveness. For example, in Exodus 12:22, hyssop was used to apply the blood of the Passover lamb to the doorposts for protection. Therefore, the use of hyssop in this scene can be seen as symbolic of Jesus being the ultimate sacrificial Lamb whose blood cleanses and purifies believers from sin. Jesus symbolically took on the sins of the world and completed the ultimate act of sacrifice by receiving this drink.
The profound statement “It is finished” spoken by Jesus holds immense theological weight. The phrase used in Greek is “Tetelestai,” an accounting term that means “paid in full.”” Through His death on the cross, Jesus accomplished the work of redemption, fulfilling the purpose for which He came to earth. This declaration signifies the completion of God’s plan for salvation, as prophesied in the Old Testament. The verse in Isaiah 53:11 says, “He will see the light of life and be satisfied after he has suffered; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.”” Jesus’ sacrificial death, signified by His words, “It is finished,” marks the culmination of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. These verses in John 19:28-30 capture the significant events leading up to Jesus’ final breath on the cross. Jesus exemplified His dual nature as both fully human and fully divine by expressing His physical thirst, fulfilling prophecy through receiving the wine vinegar, and declaring the accomplishment of His redemptive work. This momentous occasion serves as a pivotal point in the Bible, illustrating the completion of God’s plan for salvation through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
John 19:31-37
A significant moment in the crucifixion narrative of Jesus is seen in John 19:31-37. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a detailed commentary.
Section 1:
“When the soldiers came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs.”
This section highlights the fulfillment of a prophecy concerning the Messiah. Exodus 12:46 and Psalm 34:20 in the Old Testament both speak of the unbroken bones of the Passover lamb, which figuratively point to Jesus as the ultimate sacrificial lamb. The soldiers unknowingly play a part in fulfilling this prophecy by not breaking Jesus’ legs, underscoring the divine plan at work even in the midst of human actions.
Section 2:
“But one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.”
The piercing of Jesus’ side fulfilled another prophecy found in Zechariah 12:10, which foretold that “they will look on me, the one they have pierced.” This act not only confirmed Jesus’ death but also symbolized the atonement and grace that flow from His sacrifice. The significance of blood and water flowing from Jesus’ side has been interpreted as representing the sacraments of baptism and communion, emphasizing the spiritual cleansing and nourishment made available through His death.
Section 3:
“These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: ‘Not one of his bones will be broken,’”
This section reaffirms the importance of the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus’ death. The fact that none of Jesus’ bones were broken, as prophesied in Psalm 34:20, not only highlights the meticulous orchestration of God’s plan but also emphasizes Jesus’ identity as the long-awaited Messiah. It underscores the continuity between the Old Testament prophecies and their realization in the life and death of Jesus, reinforcing the significance of Christ’s role in fulfilling God’s redemptive plan.
Section 4:
“and, as another scripture says, ‘They will look on the one they have pierced.’”
Here, the reference to Zechariah 12:10 further emphasizes the divine foreknowledge and sovereignty at play in Jesus’ crucifixion. This prophecy speaks to the piercing of the Messiah, which is fulfilled in Jesus’ crucifixion, reinforcing His identity as the fulfillment of messianic expectations. The imagery of looking upon the pierced one also invites personal reflection on the profound implications of Jesus’ sacrifice for each individual, prompting a response of faith and gratitude. John 19:31-37 not only narrates the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion but also underscores the meticulous fulfillment of prophecies that point to His identity as the Messiah. The unbroken bones, the piercing of His side, and the scriptures cited all converge to highlight the divine orchestration of Jesus’ sacrificial death and its profound significance for humanity’s redemption. This passage serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of the Old Testament prophecies with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, reinforcing the timeless message of God’s faithfulness and redemptive plan for His people.
John 19:38-42
The scripture recounts an important event following the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in John 19:38-42. Let’s break down this passage into key sections for a more in-depth analysis:
- “Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away.”
This section introduces Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy and influential member of the Jewish Sanhedrin who had become a disciple of Jesus. Despite his fear of the Jewish leaders, Joseph’s love and respect for Jesus led him to take a bold step by requesting the body of Christ from Pilate. This act of courage and devotion signifies the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs even in the face of persecution or danger. It also reflects the theme of fulfilling prophecies, as the Old Testament had foretold that none of Jesus’ bones would be broken, a detail that will become significant later in the narrative (Psalm 34:20).
- “He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.”
Nicodemus, another prominent member of the Jewish ruling council, is mentioned here as accompanying Joseph of Arimathea. Nicodemus had previously visited Jesus secretly at night (John 3:1-21), showing a curiosity and yearning for spiritual truths. His presence in this somber moment signifies a transformation from a curious seeker to a bold follower of Christ. The significant quantity of myrrh and aloes brought by Nicodemus for Jesus’ burial is notable because it was a costly and extravagant amount, demonstrating deep reverence and honor for the Savior. This act illustrates the concept of sacrificial giving and the willingness to offer the best we have for the Lord (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- “Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.”
Here, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus together prepare Jesus’ body for burial according to Jewish customs. The meticulous care they took in wrapping the body of Christ with spices and linen reflects a profound sense of tenderness and respect for the Messiah. This act also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 53:9, which foretold that Jesus would be buried with the rich in his death. The attention to detail in their burial preparations underscores the dignity and reverence due to the Son of God even in His death, emphasizing the importance of honoring the sacredness of life and the physical body as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
- “At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.”
The location of Jesus’ burial holds symbolic significance as He is laid to rest in a new tomb in a garden near the place of His crucifixion. The image of a garden alludes to the Garden of Eden, highlighting themes of renewal, new life, and restoration through Christ’s sacrifice. The fact that Jesus was laid in a tomb where no one had been buried before underscores His uniqueness and the purity of His sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. This act fulfills the prophetic words of Isaiah 53:9, which stated that He would be buried with the rich despite His humble beginnings. The timing of this burial on the eve of the Sabbath, known as the Jewish day of Preparation, adds a sense of completion and fulfillment to Jesus’ earthly ministry, paving the way for the resurrection and the ultimate victory over sin and death (Matthew 28:1-10). The events described in John 19:38-42 not only depict the poignant moments following Jesus’ crucifixion but also convey profound spiritual truths and lessons for believers. The actions of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus exemplify courage, sacrifice, reverence, and faithfulness in serving the Lord, even in dark and challenging circumstances. Their devotion to Jesus, as displayed through their meticulous burial preparations, serves as a timeless reminder of the depth of Christ’s love and the significance of honoring Him with our best offerings. The placement of Jesus in a new tomb in a garden signifies the beginning of a new era of salvation and restoration, pointing towards the hope of resurrection and eternal life through the victory of Christ over sin and death. Believers can find forgiveness, redemption, and everlasting life in Jesus Christ through His sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection, ultimately underscoring the central message of the Gospel.
After John 19
We witnessed the heartbreaking crucifixion of our Lord Jesus Christ in this chapter. Despite the pain and suffering He endured, Jesus showed immense love and forgiveness to all, even to those who crucified Him. As we reflect on the sacrifice He made for our sins, let us remember the words He spoke on the cross: “It is finished.” As we prepare to delve into the next chapter, let us hold onto the hope and promise of resurrection that comes after the crucifixion. Just as Jesus conquered death, we too can find redemption and new life through Him. Let us keep our faith strong and open our hearts to the transformative power of His love.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.