one of the soldiers
The Roman soldiers were executors of the crucifixion, representing the authority of the Roman Empire. Their actions were routine and methodical, yet this particular soldier's action was significant in fulfilling prophecy and revealing deeper theological truths. The soldier's unwitting participation in God's redemptive plan underscores the sovereignty of God over human affairs.

pierced His side
The act of piercing Jesus' side is rich with symbolism and fulfills the prophecy found in Zechariah 12:10, "They will look on Me, the One they have pierced." The piercing signifies the depth of Jesus' suffering and the reality of His death. In a broader theological sense, it represents the opening of a new covenant, as His side, like the side of Adam, brings forth life—symbolizing the birth of the Church.

with a spear
The spear, a weapon of war, becomes an instrument of revelation. It is through this violent act that the truth of Jesus' humanity and divinity is revealed. The spear's penetration into Jesus' side is a physical confirmation of His death, countering any claims that He merely swooned or fainted. It also serves as a metaphor for the piercing of the human heart by the truth of the Gospel.

and immediately
The immediacy of the blood and water flowing out emphasizes the certainty and reality of Jesus' death. It also suggests the urgency and importance of the event, as if to draw the observer's attention to the significance of what is happening. This immediate flow is a divine sign, pointing to the fulfillment of Scripture and the inauguration of a new era in salvation history.

blood and water
The flow of blood and water has been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian history. Blood represents the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Water symbolizes purification and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Together, they signify the sacraments of the Eucharist and Baptism, foundational elements of Christian life and worship. This dual flow from Jesus' side is a profound testament to the completeness of His redemptive work.

flowed out
The flowing out of blood and water is a vivid image of life and cleansing emanating from Jesus. It signifies the outpouring of grace and the establishment of a new covenant between God and humanity. This flow is not just a physical phenomenon but a spiritual reality, inviting believers to partake in the life-giving and cleansing power of Jesus' sacrifice. The continuous flow suggests the ongoing availability of His grace to all who believe.

And forthwith came there out blood and water.--"Various physiological explanations have been given of this fact, such as--(1) that the lance pierced the pericardium, which contained a small quantity of watery lymph, which immediately flowed out; and also the heart, from which the blood flowed, the actual death taking place at this moment; (2) that the physical death of Christ resulted from rupture of the heart, and that the cavities of the heart and the surrounding-vessels contained a watery fluid; (3) that decomposition of the blood in the corpse had taken place, the solid matter being separated from the fluid, so that it would appear to be blood mixed with water. (Comp. Notes on 1John 5:5-6.)

Whatever solution we adopt, it is clear that death had taken place some time previously (John 19:30), and that, while we cannot say which physical explanation is the true one, there is within the region of natural occurrences quite sufficient to account for the impression on the mind of St. John which he records here. We have to think of the disciple whom Jesus loved looking at the crucified and pierced body of his Lord, and remembering the picture in later years, and telling that there flowed from that pierced side both blood and water.

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