John 19:23 KJV: “Now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.”
John 19:23 NASB: “Now the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece.”
As is typical in his writings, John records details that the other synoptic writers have not penned. Among the many points he draws our attention to is the seamless tunic of the Lord Jesus Christ. No detail of Scripture is insignificant; each is worthy of our consideration. Think then together of the seamless robe.
The Result of a Devoted Heart
Someone, likely one of the women who ministered to Him, had taken the time and extra effort to weave a garment of one perfect consistency. Here was something very special and unique. Yet He was worthy of the time and labour. Did she have any idea that it would lead to a fulfillment of prophecy? That she was providing another of the unmistakable proofs that, as the Messiah, He would fulfill all that was written of Him? The Sovereign God, Who controlled the thrust of the spear could also control the throw of the dice by the men who did not want to rend the garment.
Devotion to Christ always accomplishes far more than it sets out to do. He delights to take every deed done in love to Him and multiply its effects.
The Reflection of His Character
A seamless robe reflected a “seamless” character. For many of us, our lives are like patchwork quilts. Sadly, we can be one thing at home and another among the believers; we can behave in one manner at work and another when with the saints. “Compartmentalizing” life is a strategy recommended by psychologists and counsellors as a way of coping with life’s complexities. But not the Saviour! His life was one perfect, consistent whole.
Those familiar with computer programs and integrating different systems and programs know the value of seamlessly merging programs. The Lord Jesus in His life was consistent in every detail and in every situation.
But another contrast is suggested here. By various touches unique to John, he seems to be drawing contrasts with Adam (consider that he alone mentions the gardens – ch 18:1; 19:41). Recall that when the Lord sought out Adam, he had made, along with his wife, a garment comprised of fig leaves that they had sewn together. They had garments of “many seams,” testifying to their sin. In contrast, He had a seamless garment! It was without a seam from top to bottom. Every aspect of Him, from head to foot, was absolutely pure and perfect. Just as the Bride of Song of Songs described her beloved from head to foot (S of S 5), so we can trace Him from His thoughts and to His actions and walk and find Him absolutely without peer.
My Journey to Christ – Marc MacArthur’s Story
The Reliability of Scripture
“That the Scripture might be fulfilled.” Repeatedly, either directly or implied, our attention is drawn to the fulfillment of Scripture in the life and details of the Saviour’s crucifixion. What might seem like a wanton act of greed and gambling is used by God to assure us that all, even at the darkest hour, was under His control.
Consider
Find other contrasts and comparisons with Adam in John 18 and 19.