The piercing of Jesus’ side with a spear is recorded in John 19:31–37. After Jesus had died on the cross, the Jewish leaders asked Pilate to have the legs of the crucified men broken and their bodies removed before the Sabbath. This was to hasten their deaths and prevent their bodies from remaining on the cross during the holy day (John 19:31).
The soldiers broke the legs of the two thieves crucified with Jesus, but when they came to Jesus, they saw that He was already dead and did not break His legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out (John 19:33–34).
This action fulfilled two Old Testament prophecies. First, Exodus 12:46 and Psalm 34:20, which state that not one of His bones would be broken. Second, Zechariah 12:10, which says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.” John, who witnessed this event, affirmed its truth so that readers would believe (John 19:35–37).
The blood and water that flowed from Jesus’ side are significant. They symbolize the life and cleansing that come through His death. Blood represents atonement, while water often signifies purification and the Holy Spirit. Together, they point to the complete redemption found in Christ’s sacrifice.
The spear, though an instrument of violence, became a means of prophetic fulfillment and a testimony of Christ’s death. It confirmed that Jesus truly died and laid the foundation for the resurrection. The piercing of His side also speaks to His identity as the Lamb of God, whose perfect sacrifice provides salvation for all who believe.
