John 19:31-37 is about the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies as Jesus’ legs were not broken, symbolizing his perfection as the sacrificial Lamb, with his side pierced to confirm his death and fulfill scripture.
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.”
Setting the Scene for John 19:31-37
The scene in John chapter 19:31-37 takes place at Golgotha, the place where Jesus was crucified. It is the day of Preparation for the Sabbath, and the Jewish leaders are concerned about the bodies remaining on the crosses during the Sabbath. They request Pilate to have the legs of the crucified men broken to hasten their deaths and have them taken down before sunset.
In this scene, we see Roman soldiers approaching the three men who were crucified that day: Jesus in the center, with two criminals on either side. The soldiers break the legs of the two criminals to ensure their deaths, but when they come to Jesus, they find that He is already dead. To confirm His death, a soldier pierces Jesus’ side with a spear, and blood and water flow out, fulfilling the prophecy that not a bone of His would be broken.
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is also present at Golgotha, along with Mary Magdalene and the disciple whom Jesus loved, traditionally identified as John. They witness these events with sorrow and awe, as the fulfillment of Scripture unfolds before their eyes. The scene is filled with a sense of solemnity and divine purpose, as Jesus’ sacrificial death is completed, and His identity as the Lamb of God is affirmed.
What is John 19:31-37 about?
The act of piercing Jesus’ side in this verse confirms his death on the cross and fulfills the prophecy that none of his bones would be broken. This fulfillment of the prophecy underscores the completeness of Jesus’ sacrifice and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. The piercing of his side serves as a physical confirmation of his death, as well as a symbolic representation of the depth of his sacrifice for humanity’s sins.
Have you ever wondered about the intricate details and prophecies surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion? This verse highlights the meticulous fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the life and death of Jesus, underscoring the divine plan at work. The precision of these prophecies not only points to Jesus as the promised Messiah but also emphasizes the intentionality and purpose behind every aspect of his sacrifice for our salvation. Reflecting on the meaning behind the piercing of Jesus’ side can deepen our understanding of the significance of his death and the fulfillment of God’s plan for redemption.
Understanding what John 19:31-37 really means
The passage in John 19:31-37 unveils a poignant moment following the crucifixion of Jesus, where the Jewish leaders, mindful of the impending Sabbath, request Pilate to hasten the removal of the bodies from the crosses. The soldiers, complying with this request, break the legs of the criminals crucified beside Jesus. However, upon reaching Jesus, they discover He has already passed away. Instead of breaking His legs, a soldier pierces His side with a spear, inadvertently fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.
The significance of the phrase “Not one of his bones will be broken” resonates deeply with the prophecies in Psalm 34:20 and Exodus 12:46, portraying Jesus as the ultimate sacrificial lamb akin to the Passover lamb. This imagery underscores the sacrificial nature of Jesus’ death and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies, weaving a tapestry of divine orchestration in the events surrounding His crucifixion.
Moreover, the prophetic declaration “They will look on the one they have pierced” alludes to Zechariah 12:10, foretelling a time when people will mourn the piercing of the one they have rejected. This prophecy serves as a poignant reminder of humanity’s role in Jesus’ suffering and death, prompting reflection on the profound implications of His sacrifice for all.
The interconnectedness of these prophecies with Jesus’ crucifixion not only validates the reliability of God’s word but also underscores His sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It serves as a beacon of hope for believers, affirming that God’s plans are meticulously executed, and His word stands unwavering through time.
The imagery of Jesus’ side being pierced, resulting in the flow of blood and water, symbolizes the outpouring of grace and the birth of the Church. This symbolism continues to hold relevance today, signifying the spiritual nourishment and communal unity found in Christ’s sacrifice and the formation of the Church as a source of strength and fellowship for believers.
In contemplating the fulfillment of these prophecies, one is reminded of a meticulously planned family reunion where every promise made is fulfilled, fostering trust and unity among the participants. Similarly, the fulfillment of prophecies in Jesus’ death serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness, engendering trust and unity among believers in the profound impact of Christ’s sacrifice.
In conclusion, the passage in John 19:31-37 serves as a poignant reminder of the meticulous fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus’ sacrificial death. It beckons believers to trust in the reliability of God’s word, reflect on the profound implications of Christ’s sacrifice, and embrace the unity and grace found in the birth of the Church through His redemptive work.
What does it mean to pierce Jesus’ side?
Piercing Jesus’ side was a fulfillment of scripture, signifying the completion of his sacrificial death and the confirmation of his mortality. This act served as a means of ensuring that Jesus had truly died, as the soldiers did not break his legs as they did with the other crucified men. The piercing also revealed the flow of blood and water from Jesus’ side, symbolizing the atonement for sins and the cleansing and purification that come from his sacrifice.
Furthermore, the act of piercing Jesus’ side held symbolic significance beyond the physical confirmation of his death. It represented the opening of a new way into God’s presence and the birth of the church. Through the blood shed from Jesus’ side, believers find forgiveness and redemption, and through his death and resurrection, a new covenant is established. Thus, the piercing of Jesus’ side serves as a powerful and profound symbol of the sacrifice that brings salvation and new life to all who believe.
Application
Have you ever worked a double shift to provide for your family, feeling every ounce of exhaustion but driven by love? Reflecting on John 19:31-37, imagine Jesus enduring unimaginable pain for you. His sacrifice isn’t a distant tale; it’s a call to live with purpose and gratitude. Let your actions at work and at home mirror that love and dedication. How will you honor such incredible sacrifice today?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.