The Jews did not want the bodies to remain on the cross on the sabbath because it was the preparation,
The Jews did not want the bodies to remain on the cross on the sabbath because it was the preparation, (for that sabbath was an high day. They asked Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken down. Therefore the soldiers came and broke the legs of the two thieves but not of Jesus because he was already dead. One of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear and there immediately came out blood and water. These things were done so that the scripture might be fulfilled. (JHN 19:31-37)