For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.” And again another Scripture says, “They will look on him whom they have pierced.”

 John 19:31-37

For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.”  And again another Scripture says, “They will look on him whom they have pierced.” John 19:36-37

I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 19:31-37, where Jesus is now dead but still hanging from the cross.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method. 

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Vv33-34 describe how the soldiers broke the legs of the two crucified with Jesus but did not break Jesus' legs, and they also pierced Jesus' side.  Vv36-37 shares how "these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled," specifically in Exodus 12:46, Numbers 9:12, Zechariah 12:10, and Psalm 34:20.  It's once again important to Jesus in all scripture, it points to Jesus, and how Jesus fulfills scripture.  I am led to John 1:1 where scripture says: "[i]n the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."  Our church is currently doing a sermon series on Exodus and I've been blessed how each time our pastor sermons on the text - he directly and explicitly connects Exodus to Jesus.     
• What do we learn from the text about people?: It's quite interesting to see how the Jewish leadership knew Jesus was not guilty of any crime (and Pilate knew this also), yet He was murdered by them.  In v31 the Jewish leaders did want to leave the bodies on the cross on the Sabbath, as they were concerned about violating the law, yet they had no problem killing an innocent man in violation of the command to "not murder" (Exodus 20:13)....hypocrisy. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid hypocrisy as this undermines you not just personally, but if a believer, the entire church.  Claim the promise that the Word is God and that if you seek Him in the Word you fill find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).  Follow the example of Jesus who knew the law and knew the Father (as He was sent by the Father) - get to know God.  Seek Him with all of your heart, soul, and mind. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God and You provide Your Word so that we can see You in the Word and come to know, understand, and please You.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You save and give me Your Word, the church, and the Holy Spirit to equip me for the mission You give me.  I am not deserving of these blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.