Understanding the Phrase: They Pierced His Side in the Old Testament
The phrase “they pierced his side” originates from the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is deeply rooted in the Old Testament prophecies. This phrase not only highlights a physical act but also represents significant theological implications consistent throughout the Bible. Let’s delve into the context behind this piercing, exploring its prophetic nature and the scriptural references that illuminate its meaning.
The Prophetic Context from Zechariah
One of the primary references for the piercing is found in the Book of Zechariah. In Zechariah 12:10, it is written:
“And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child.”
This passage is not directly about the crucifixion but foreshadows it. Zechariah speaks of a future event when the people will recognize the significance of the one they pierced. Here, the act of piercing becomes a pivotal moment of recognition and repentance.
The Fulfillment in the New Testament
John 19:34 marks the fulfillment of this prophecy. During the crucifixion, after Jesus had died, a Roman soldier pierced his side with a spear. The scripture states:
“Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.”
This event not only fulfills the Old Testament prophecy but also emphasizes the sacrificial nature of Jesus’s death. Blood and water flowing from His side symbolizes purity, redemption, and the birth of the Church, as water often represents baptism and rebirth within Christian theology.
Symbolism in the Act of Piercing
To understand the depth of “they pierced his side,” we must explore the symbolism involved. The act of piercing can be seen as a physical manifestation of deeper spiritual realities.
The Piercing as Acknowledgment of Sin
In a biblical context, piercing also symbolizes the piercing of hearts due to sin. Collectively, humanity’s sin separates us from God, leading to the need for atonement. When Jesus was pierced, it serves as a reminder of the cost of salvation and the depth of His love for us. It highlights that Christ’s suffering was not just physical but spiritual.
Connection to the Passover Lamb
Moreover, the piercing connects to the Passover lamb described in Exodus 12. The lamb’s blood was crucial for the Israelites’ protection from the angel of death. Just as that lamb was without blemish, Jesus, the Lamb of God, was perfect and sinless. The blood from His pierced side provides believers with a renewed covenant. In essence, it symbolizes deliverance and protection from judgment due to sin.
Comparisons in Scripture
To further appreciate the significance of the piercing, we can explore other verses that contribute to this narrative.
Psalm 22: A Foreshadowing of His Suffering
Psalm 22 is often referred to as a prophetic psalm about the suffering of Christ. Verses in this chapter predate the crucifixion and describe the agony He would endure, such as in verse 16:
“Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet.”
This imagery not only anticipates the crucifixion but reinforces God’s foreknowledge and plan for redemption. The direct mention of piercing hands and feet echoes the later account of His crucifixion.
Isaiah 53: The Suffering Servant
Isaiah 53 provides insight into the purpose of the suffering servant. It speaks of Jesus bearing our griefs and sorrows and emphasizes the idea of Him being wounded for our transgressions:
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)
Here, the act of being pierced encompasses the themes of suffering, sacrifice, and ultimate healing. It reinforces the understanding that every wound of Christ had a purpose and was prophesied long before His birth.
Theological Implications of the Piercing
The piercing of Jesus’s side embodies two central theological themes: atonement and revelation.
Atonement for Humanity
The piercing signifies the ultimate atonement for humanity’s sins. Through this act, believers understand that salvation comes through faith in Christ and acknowledgment of His sacrifice. Romans 5:8 tells us:
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
This underscores the deep love that lays the foundation for believers to have hope and assurance of forgiveness.
Revelation of New Covenant
After the resurrection, the act of being pierced also signifies a new covenant established with humanity. In communion, believers partake of the bread and the cup, reflecting on His body broken and blood shed, which echoes the sacrifice made on the cross. The act serves as a reminder of the promise of eternal life offered through faith in Christ—the piercing then becomes a gateway to revelation and understanding of God’s loving grace.
Conclusion
The phrase “they pierced his side” encompasses profound biblical truths that connect the Old Testament prophecies to the New Testament fulfillment found in the life and death of Jesus Christ. From Zechariah to the Gospel of John, the act of piercing serves as a multifaceted symbol representing sin, redemption, and the new covenant established in Christ’s blood. It invites believers to reflect on the sacrificial love of Jesus, recognizes the prophetic framework of scripture, and acknowledges the deep, spiritual truths embedded within.
As believers, understanding the depth of this piercing not only encourages our faith but affirms the continuity of God’s plan for humanity throughout the scriptures.
Common Questions Related to They Pierced His Side Old Testament
Q. What does “they pierced his side” refer to in the Bible?
A. It refers to the act of a Roman soldier piercing Jesus’s side with a spear during the crucifixion, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.
Q. Where is the prophecy about the piercing found in the Old Testament?
A. Zechariah 12:10 mentions the piercing and is often linked to the New Testament accounts of Jesus’s crucifixion.
Q. What is the significance of the blood and water flowing from Jesus’s side?
A. The blood symbolizes redemption, while the water represents baptism and spiritual rebirth, illustrating the new covenant.
Q. How does Psalm 22 relate to the piercing of Jesus?
A. Psalm 22 prophetically describes the suffering of Christ, mentioning that His hands and feet would be pierced.
Q. Why is Jesus referred to as the Passover Lamb?
A. Like the Passover lamb whose blood protected the Israelites, Jesus’s sacrifice offers believers protection from sin and death.
Q. How does Isaiah 53 connect to the idea of piercing?
A. Isaiah 53 speaks of the suffering servant being “pierced for our transgressions,” emphasizing that His suffering was purposeful for our salvation.
Q. In what way is the piercing seen as a revelation?
A. It reveals God’s love and the fulfillment of His promises, inviting believers to recognize the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
Q. What is the new covenant established by Jesus?
A. It is the promise of salvation and eternal life through faith in Jesus, symbolized by communion, remembering His body and blood.
Q. Why should Christians reflect on the piercing act?
A. Reflecting on it deepens understanding of God’s love, the significance of Jesus’s sacrifice, and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
Q. How does the act of piercing influence Christian worship?
A. It serves as a reminder of Jesus’s sacrificial love, guiding worship practices like communion and reinforcing the themes of acknowledgment and repentance.