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John 19:33 states that Jesus' legs were unbroken, fulfilling Psalm 34:20. And, Exodus 12:46 forbids breaking any bones of the Passover lamb. How does this link Jesus to the Passover sacrifice, and what does it tell us about the significance of this?

John Calvin connects the blood and water from Jesus' side to atonement and washing. How does this imagery align with other Biblical references to water and blood (e.g., Gen 2:7, Lev 17:11, Rev 7:14), and what message does it convey about Jesus' sacrifice?

John Calvin connects the blood and water to atonement and washing. How do these elements resonate with the Old Testament symbolism of the Passover sacrifice and the cleansing power of water in Jewish tradition? (Explores Biblical context and historical connections)

The soldier's action of piercing Jesus' side with a spear seems callous, yet John emphasizes its fulfillment of prophecy (Zechariah 12:10). How does this paradox help us understand God's sovereignty and the intersection of human agency and divine will? (Raises theological questions about free will and predestination)

Beyond symbols: Personal connection: While the blood and water hold symbolic meaning, they also represent Jesus' physical suffering. How does contemplating the physical reality of his wounds deepen our understanding of his love and sacrifice for us?

While Calvin suggests the spear wound symbolizes rejection of God's word, other interpretations link it to Zechariah 12:10 and John's own testimony (John 19:35). How can these different perspectives be reconciled, and what unique insights do they offer into the significance of the event?

Calvin describes the spear wound as a response to "obstinate contempt of His Word." How might this connect to the historical context of Jesus' rejection and the ongoing struggle between faith and unbelief? (Engages with historical and spiritual applications)

The blood and water also evoke imagery of baptism. How does this link Jesus' sacrifice on the cross to the sacrament of baptism and the concept of new birth in Christ? (Connects Scripture to another sacrament and its spiritual significance)

Water of life, wellspring of grace: John 7:38 speaks of "rivers of living water" flowing from those who believe in Jesus. How does the water flowing from Jesus' side foreshadow the Holy Spirit's work in the lives of believers, and how can we tap into this wellspring of grace?

Some interpretations suggest the blood and water represent distinct spiritual realities (e.g., sacraments, the church). What are the strengths and weaknesses of such interpretations and what are some alternative ways to understand the symbolism within historical and theological context?

The study title mentions being "near the cross." How does contemplating the physical details of Jesus' suffering, like the piercing of His side, deepen our emotional and spiritual connection to His sacrifice? (Encourages personal reflection and application)

Blood and water: Sacramental connection: Throughout church history, water and wine have been used in sacraments like baptism and communion. How do these practices connect to the symbolism of blood and water in John 19:33, and how can they deepen our understanding and appreciation of Jesus' sacrifice?

Drawing near the cross: Personal reflection: Considering today's discussion, what does it mean for you personally to "draw near the cross"? How can contemplating Jesus' suffering and the symbolism of blood and water transform your relationship with him and your commitment to following him?

PASTOR WILLIAM'S BOOKS: https://www.amazon.com/stores/William-Shifflett/author/B005H0F1GG Disagree, agree, or have a question: Contact us through the contact page on our website; http://www.biblebulldog.com Luke 23:46 - Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last. Again we see Jesus quoting Scripture and the Scripture is from the Psalms. It's Psalm 31 verse 5. Do Jesus’s words show that He was in total control of the situation? “None of us can die this way.” It's almost like Jesus decides when He's going to commit His spirit to God. The Romans don't decide when He dies, the Jews don't decide when He dies; He decides when He dies. He decides when He gives His spirit to God. Can we simply dismiss our spirits as Jesus did? 1 Peter 2:21- For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps. Is Jesus showing Christians how to die? Do we learn from Jesus’s words that there is life beyond the grave? “Jesus committed His spirit to God.” How is this spirit different from the Holy Spirit? Is this how the saints of all ages have died? Does Jesus teach us to commend our souls in death, not just in life? “Jesus was strengthened His spirit by clinging to the promises of God.” Jesus did that His whole life, didn’t He? Shouldn’t Christians be doing the same? “If you do not do it now, how will you ever find strength to do it when you come to die?” Our Savior was doing something that was literally marvelous for us on the cross. Receive it by faith in Him.

PASTOR WILLIAM'S BOOKS: https://www.amazon.com/stores/William... Disagree, agree, or have a question: Contact us through the contact page on our website; http://www.biblebulldog.com Deuteronomy 21:23 - his body shall not remain all night on the tree, but you shall bury him the same day, for a hanged man is cursed by God. You shall not defile your land that the Lord your God is giving you for an inheritance. Galatians 3:13 - Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree” When most people speak today of the idea of curse, what do we think of? Is everyone that fails to keep God’s law cursed? Are we justified by the law? Jews executed by stoning, why is this significant? “Just as the scapegoat was driven outside the camp, outside of the Holy City where the presence of God was concentrated, so Jesus was sent into the outer darkness.” On the cross, was Jesus forsaken by the Father and sent into the outer darkness, away from the merciful presence of God? “The sign of the new covenant was circumcision.” “The rite had two meanings, a positive and negative.” What are the meanings? Many have died on a cross, but did anyone else receive the full measure of the curse of God? “It is finished.” What was over, His life, the pain of the nails? What does it mean to us that the curse is over?