Untitled Sermon (34)

they pierced Him and burial Him

the water and blood came out

they buried in a new tomb

Wounded for Us: The Significance of the Pierced Savior

Bible Passage: John 19:31–42

Summary: In John 19:31-42, the narrative recounts the crucifixion of Jesus, specifically highlighting the event where Jesus' side is pierced, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy and revealing profound truths about redemption and sacrifice.

Application: This message reminds believers that Jesus' suffering was not in vain; it was for our sins and suffering. It encourages individuals to confront their own pain and sins and to find healing in Jesus' wounds, teaching them that there is hope, forgiveness, and purpose derived from recognizing Christ’s sacrifice.

Teaching: The sermon will teach that the piercing of Jesus’ side symbolizes both the fulfillment of prophecy and the depth of God's love, emphasizing that through His wounds, we are healed, and that Christ's sacrifice is central to our faith and hope.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage foreshadows the complete work of Christ as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. The piercing of His body fulfills the prophecies of Isaiah 53:5, revealing the redemptive purpose of His suffering and linking it to the sacrificial system that points to Him as the ultimate sacrifice.

Big Idea: Christ's piercing is a profound demonstration of God's love and the fulfillment of prophecy that underscores our need for a Savior and the healing that comes through Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon, consider exploring the historical context of crucifixion in the ancient world through your Logos library. Look into the intertextual references between John and Old Testament prophecies such as Zechariah 12:10. Additionally, you might find it beneficial to examine commentaries that address the significance of the blood and water that flowed from Jesus' side, as they carry rich theological implications.

1. Urgency Undermined by Grace

John 19:31-34

Maybe you could highlight how the urgency of the religious leaders to remove the bodies demonstrates the urgency with which humanity often approaches God superficially. Contrast that with the deep significance of the piercing of Jesus' side, which fulfills prophecy and reveals God's deep, sacrificial love for humanity. Emphasize that His wounds provided real healing, offering forgiveness and hope as prophesied in Isaiah 53:5.

2. Eyewitness Assurance of Prophecy

John 19:35-37

You could suggest examining John's claim as an eyewitness, asserting that belief rests on verifiable truth. Draw attention to how the piercing fulfills Zechariah’s prophecy, assuring us that God's plans are trustworthy. Connecting this fulfillment to Christ being 'pierced for our transgressions' offers assurance in His sacrificial love, inviting believers to embrace faith and healing through this unmistakable act of divine planning.

3. Transformation Triggered by Devotion

John 19:38-42

Perhaps reflect on the boldness of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who step forward to care for Jesus' body. Their actions show transformation and commitment as a result of Christ's death. In dying, Jesus brings about change in His followers, urging us to act courageously as witnesses to His sacrificial love, aware of the redemptive power in His wounds that encourages personal and communal transformation towards righteousness.

As a teenager, I remember having a piercing phase—earrings, some in questionable places! But unlike a trendy ear piercing, the reason for Jesus' piercing wasn't about style. It was an act of love, a deep reminder of the lengths He would go to bring us closer to Him. It’s like saying, 'I love you so much, I’d go through anything for you!' Can you imagine wearing a cross as a fashion statement? Our Savior redefines piercing with purpose!

Think of all the silly reasons we see people getting pierced—trendy aesthetics, rebellious spirits, or maybe a rite of passage. Yet, when it comes to Jesus, His piercing was the ultimate act of rebellion against sin and the deepest expression of His love for humanity. He flipped every piercing concept upside down, reminding us that true beauty often comes from pain and sacrifice!