Joh 19:31 | MHM | STEP | The Crucifixion This passage tells about what happened after Jesus died on the cross, focusing on the piercing of his side. It explains why the Jews asked Pilate to have the bodies taken down before the Sabbath and how Jesus’ death was confirmed by a soldier’s spear. This event is recorded only by the apostle John and is full of meaning about Jesus’ death and its effects for believers. v. 31 : The Jews wanted the bodies removed before the Sabbath because it was a very special day, a “high day” during the Passover week (John 19:31 ). They showed respect for the Sabbath by not wanting dead bodies hanging on crosses. They asked Pilate to break the legs of those crucified to hasten their deaths and allow for quicker burial. This request shows their hypocrisy—they cared more about appearances and traditions than justice. They had no problem putting Jesus to death, but were concerned about dead bodies defiling the holy day.

‏ John 19:31

The Crucifixion

This passage tells about what happened after Jesus died on the cross, focusing on the piercing of his side. It explains why the Jews asked Pilate to have the bodies taken down before the Sabbath and how Jesus’ death was confirmed by a soldier’s spear. This event is recorded only by the apostle John and is full of meaning about Jesus’ death and its effects for believers.

v. 31: The Jews wanted the bodies removed before the Sabbath because it was a very special day, a “high day” during the Passover week (John 19:31 ^a). They showed respect for the Sabbath by not wanting dead bodies hanging on crosses. They asked Pilate to break the legs of those crucified to hasten their deaths and allow for quicker burial. This request shows their hypocrisy—they cared more about appearances and traditions than justice. They had no problem putting Jesus to death, but were concerned about dead bodies defiling the holy day.