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What did Jesus mean when He said, “It is finished”?

Brief Answer

When Jesus said, “It is finished” (John 19:30), He declared that His work of redemption was complete. This statement signified the fulfillment of God’s plan for the salvation of humanity. By dying on the cross, Jesus completed the payment for sin, fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, and established the new covenant, making reconciliation with God possible for all who believe.

Understanding “It is finished” from a Biblical Perspective

Jesus’ final words on the cross, “It is finished,” were not just a cry of relief or exhaustion; they were a declaration of victory. The Greek word used here is tetelestai, which means “paid in full” or “completed.” This phrase indicates that Jesus’ mission was accomplished, bringing about the ultimate purpose for which He came into the world: to provide salvation for sinners.

The Accomplishment of Redemption

Jesus’ declaration signaled that the penalty for sin was paid in full. In Romans 6:23, we learn that “the wages of sin is death,” but through His sacrifice, Jesus took that penalty upon Himself. This act satisfied the justice of God while demonstrating His immense love for humanity (Romans 5:8).

Fulfillment of Prophecies

Jesus’ crucifixion was not a random event but the culmination of prophecies given centuries before. Isaiah 53:5-6 describes the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many, saying, “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Jesus’ words, “It is finished,” marked the fulfillment of these prophecies and many others, demonstrating that God’s promises are trustworthy and true.

Historical Context

Understanding the context of Jesus’ crucifixion is crucial to grasping the depth of His statement. Jesus was crucified during the time of Passover, a Jewish festival that commemorated God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt. The Passover lamb, sacrificed as part of this celebration, symbolized atonement and protection. In saying, “It is finished,” Jesus proclaimed Himself as the true Passover Lamb whose blood would cover the sins of all who place their faith in Him (1 Corinthians 5:7).

The Roman method of crucifixion was brutal and meant to be a public display of punishment and deterrence. Jesus’ suffering was immense, yet His final words were spoken with purpose and significance. Despite the agony, His declaration signified triumph, not defeat.

Theological Depth and Insight

  • Atonement for Sin: The phrase “It is finished” means that Jesus’ sacrificial death fully atoned for the sins of humanity. Hebrews 10:10 states, “And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament, Jesus’ sacrifice was perfect and complete, needing no repetition.
  • Victory Over Sin and Death: Jesus’ death and subsequent resurrection broke the power of sin and death. Paul echoes this victory in 1 Corinthians 15:54-57, saying, “Death has been swallowed up in victory… But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
  • New Covenant Established: Jesus’ declaration ushered in the new covenant, which Jeremiah 31:31-34 foretold. This covenant promised that God would write His law on the hearts of His people and forgive their sins completely.

Broader Biblical Themes

  • God’s Faithfulness: The completion of Jesus’ work on the cross affirms God’s faithfulness to His promises. The redemption story began in Genesis 3:15, where God promised that the offspring of the woman would crush the serpent’s head. Jesus’ crucifixion was the fulfillment of that promise.
  • Reconciliation with God: The tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Jesus’ death (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes that access to God was no longer restricted. Through Jesus, believers can come boldly to the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16).
  • Sacrificial Love: “It is finished” reflects the magnitude of God’s love. John 3:16 encapsulates this: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus’ work on the cross is the ultimate expression of sacrificial love.

Practical Implications

Understanding what Jesus meant by “It is finished” brings several lessons and applications for Christians:

  • Assurance of Salvation: Believers can rest in the assurance that their sins are forgiven, knowing that Jesus’ work was complete and sufficient. This truth counters doubts and fears about salvation.
  • Living in Victory: Because Jesus conquered sin and death, Christians can live in the freedom and power that His victory provides (Romans 8:1-2).
  • A Call to Gratitude: Recognizing that salvation is a gift paid in full by Jesus should inspire a heart of gratitude and a life devoted to serving Him.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

In a world filled with striving and uncertainty, Jesus’ statement “It is finished” reminds believers that their greatest need—reconciliation with God—has already been met. This truth empowers Christians to live with peace and purpose, knowing they are loved and redeemed by a complete and finished work.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

Jesus’ words on the cross encapsulate the essence of the gospel: God’s love manifested through sacrifice. This declaration embodies the heart of John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jesus’ sacrifice was the ultimate act of love, ensuring that believers could have an eternal relationship with God.

Bible Characters and Their Relevance to This Truth

  • Paul: The Apostle Paul, who once persecuted Christians, experienced firsthand the power of Jesus’ completed work. His life and writings, particularly in Romans and Galatians, reflect the transformative understanding that salvation is a finished work of grace.
  • Peter: Peter’s denial of Jesus and subsequent restoration after the resurrection demonstrate the comprehensive forgiveness available through Jesus’ finished work. Peter’s eventual boldness in preaching the gospel (Acts 2) was rooted in the assurance that Jesus’ sacrifice was complete.
  • John: The disciple whom Jesus loved was present at the crucifixion and recorded Jesus’ words. John’s writings, especially in his Gospel and letters, emphasize the depth of Jesus’ love and the assurance believers have in Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

  • How does knowing that Jesus’ work on the cross is finished change the way you view your relationship with God?
  • In what ways does this truth impact how you live out your faith daily?
  • What does it mean for you to live with the assurance that your sins have been paid for completely?
  • How can you share the significance of Jesus’ finished work with others who may not understand its importance?

Jesus’ statement, “It is finished,” is a powerful proclamation that His mission to save humanity was completed. This truth invites believers to rest in the knowledge that their sins are forgiven and that their hope is secure in Christ. The cross was not the end but the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, demonstrating His love, faithfulness, and the victory that believers can live in each day.

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