“Blood and Water”
Seeking Jesus First - August 18, 2026
“Blood and Water”
Please Read John 19:31–37 (NKJV)
Reflection
Therefore, because it was the Preparation Day, that the bodies should not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and of the other who was crucified with Him. But when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.
And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you may believe. For these things were done that the Scripture should be fulfilled, “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”
The blood and water that flowed from Jesus’ side were not accidental. They fulfilled the Scriptures concerning the Passover Lamb whose bones were not broken, and the One who would be pierced. John, the beloved disciple, stands as an eyewitness so that we may believe.
From the beginning, Scripture has given us a picture of the Bride formed from the side of the man. Eve was taken from Adam’s side while he slept. Now, in the “sleep” of death, blood and water flow from the side of the last Adam. Many have seen in this the birth of the Church — the Bride secured by the finished work of the cross. The blood speaks of cleansing and the price of redemption; the water speaks of life and the Spirit. Together they testify that from His death comes our life.
Application
Today, receive the full testimony of the cross. The blood and the water still speak.
Renew your mind with this truth: You are cleansed by His blood and made alive by His Spirit. The same side that was pierced for you is the source of both forgiveness and new life. Do not separate what God has joined — the finished work that both cleanses and gives life. Live today as one who has been brought forth from His side.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that Jesus’ side was pierced and that blood and water flowed for us. Thank You that the Scriptures were fulfilled and that the testimony is true. We receive the cleansing of His blood and the life of His Spirit. Thank You that from His death the Bride is brought forth. Keep us faithful to the One who was pierced for us. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.