Why are testimonies to Jesus”™ actual death important?

(NASB) John 19:33-35 “but coming to Jesus, (the Roman soldiers) when they saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs.

34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.

35 And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you also may believe.”

(NASB) John 19:36-37 “For these things came to pass to fulfill the Scripture”¦

37 “THEY SHALL LOOK ON HIM WHOM THEY PIERCED.”

The testimonies from Roman soldiers, Jesus”™ dead body, God”™s word and eye-witnesses all attest to Jesus”™ death.

Testimony of Jesus”™ death:

1. The Roman soldiers ““ experienced at execution and determining death ““ testified to Jesus”™ death:

Their honest report, experienced report, official report

2. Jesus”™ dead body ““ blood and water “˜pooled”™ and flowed out when the spear pierced His side

3. Scriptural prophecy of Messiah ““ took place on that day

It was not just any Jew who died, but Christ (Messiah)

Scripture said that Messiah would be pierced (the Roman soldiers would have had no idea of this prophecy). (See Zechariah 12:10; Psalm 53:5)

4. Eyewitness accounts of actual death

[According to Jewish law there had to be 2-3 witnesses to validate the specific event.]

(NIV) Deuteronomy 19:15 “One witness is not enough to convict a man accused of any crime or offense he may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”

Jesus said:

(NASB) Matthew 18:16 “But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that BY THE MOUTH OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES EVERY FACT MAY BE CONFIRMED.”

Why are these testimonies important pertaining to Jesus”™ actual death?

Jesus”™ death is important for a number of reasons and a significant reason is the actual, physical resurrection of Jesus Christ from the grave.

The testimonies concerning Jesus”™ death are proof of His actual death.

The glory of His resurrection is based on His death.