The phrase "The One They Have Pierced" is a significant messianic reference found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament and is fulfilled in the New Testament. This phrase is primarily associated with the prophecy in Zechariah 12:10 and its fulfillment in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospel of John.

Old Testament Prophecy

The prophecy is found in Zechariah 12:10, which states: "Then I will pour out on the house of David and on the residents of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on Me, the One they have pierced; they will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for Him as one grieves for a firstborn son."

This passage is part of a larger prophetic context where God promises to deliver Jerusalem from its enemies and to bring about a time of repentance and spiritual renewal. The piercing mentioned here is understood as a physical act that leads to a profound spiritual awakening and mourning among the people of Israel.

New Testament Fulfillment

The Gospel of John explicitly connects this prophecy to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In John 19:34-37, the apostle John describes how a Roman soldier pierced Jesus' side with a spear after His death on the cross. John writes: "Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out... These things happened so that the Scripture would be fulfilled: 'Not one of His bones will be broken.' And, as another Scripture says: 'They will look on the One they have pierced.'"

John's Gospel emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the events surrounding Jesus' death, underscoring the belief that Jesus is the promised Messiah. The piercing of Jesus' side is seen as a direct fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy, highlighting the continuity between the Testaments and the divine plan of salvation.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, "The One They Have Pierced" holds deep significance in Christian doctrine. It points to the suffering and sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, which is central to the Christian understanding of atonement and redemption. The piercing is not only a physical act but also a symbol of the rejection and suffering that the Messiah would endure for the sake of humanity's salvation.

The mourning described in Zechariah 12:10 is interpreted as a call to repentance and recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. This mourning is seen as a necessary response to the realization of the gravity of sin and the cost of redemption. The passage invites believers to reflect on the sacrificial love of Christ and the transformative power of His death and resurrection.

Eschatological Implications

In addition to its historical and theological significance, the prophecy of "The One They Have Pierced" also carries eschatological implications. Some interpretations suggest that the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy will occur at the Second Coming of Christ, when all people will recognize Him as Lord and Savior. This future aspect emphasizes the hope and expectation of Christ's return and the final establishment of God's kingdom.

In summary, "The One They Have Pierced" is a profound biblical theme that encapsulates the suffering, sacrifice, and ultimate victory of Jesus Christ. It serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, affirming the messianic identity of Jesus and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.