Joh 19:34 | MHM | STEP | v. 34 : To be sure Jesus was dead, a soldier pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water flowed out (John 19:34 ). This proved beyond doubt that Jesus had died. Tradition says the soldier was named Longinus and was healed by the blood, but this is not confirmed. More importantly, the blood and water symbolize the great benefits from Jesus’ death: blood represents forgiveness (justification), and water represents new life and cleansing (sanctification). These two blessings flow from Jesus’ sacrifice and are also symbolized in baptism and the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 John 5:6,8 ). The opening of Jesus’ side is like a window into his heart, showing his deep love for us (Ephesians 5:30, 32 ).

‏ John 19:34

v. 34: To be sure Jesus was dead, a soldier pierced his side with a spear, and blood and water flowed out (John 19:34 ^a). This proved beyond doubt that Jesus had died. Tradition says the soldier was named Longinus and was healed by the blood, but this is not confirmed. More importantly, the blood and water symbolize the great benefits from Jesus’ death: blood represents forgiveness (justification), and water represents new life and cleansing (sanctification). These two blessings flow from Jesus’ sacrifice and are also symbolized in baptism and the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 John 5:6,8 ^b). The opening of Jesus’ side is like a window into his heart, showing his deep love for us (Ephesians 5:30, 32 ^c).