12 Reasons Why Jesus Meant It When He Said It Is Finished

12 Reasons Why Jesus Meant It When He Said, “It Is Finished” — Beautiful Christian Life

Christians should never believe that their good deeds or efforts contribute in any manner to their justification or salvation. The good news is that there are twelve compelling reasons why Jesus truly meant it when he stated, “It is finished” (John 19:30).

1. Jesus—being true God and true human—was the perfect, once for all sacrifice for sin.

And the Word became man and lived among us, and we have beheld his glory, glory befitting the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth, as we have witnessed his incarnation. (See also John 1:14) Because Christ has entered into heaven itself, not into holy sanctuaries constructed by human hands that are mere replicas of the actual things, but into heaven itself in order to appear before God on our behalf. Not only was it not possible for him to give himself repeatedly, as the high priest accesses the sacred places every year using other people’s blood, but it was also not possible since he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the beginning of time.

(9:24-26; Hebrews 9:24-26)

2. Only Jesus kept the law fully—he was the true Son of Israel who loved God and his neighbor perfectly.

The Prophets and the Law were not abolished by Jesus; rather, they were fulfilled by him. “Do not believe that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5:17; Mark 1:17) So that we could become the righteousness of God in him, he turned him into sin who had no knowledge of sin for our own benefit. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:21 that Because we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but rather one who has been tempted in every way we are, but has come out unscathed.

3. There is nothing we can add to Jesus’ finished work on our behalf.

He is not required to give sacrifices on a regular basis, first for his own sins and then for the sins of the people, as were those high priests, because he completed this task once and for all when he offered himself as a sacrifice. (See also Hebrews 7:27) However, once Christ had given a single sacrifice for all time, he was seated at the right side of the Father, awaiting judgment. (See also Hebrews 10:12) “Therefore, when you have completed all that you were instructed, you should declare, ‘We are unworthy slaves; we have simply carried out our responsibilities.'” (See also Luke 17:10)

4. Salvation is God’s gift to us—and so is our faith.

However, the free gift is not the same as the trespass. Since many perished as a result of one man’s wrongdoing, God’s grace and the free gift provided by the grace of that one man, Jesus Christ, have multiplied for countless more. (See also Romans 5:15.) Because you have been rescued by grace through your faith, And this is not your own doing; it is a gift from God, not a product of your efforts, so that no one may take credit for what you have accomplished. The Bible says (Ephesians 2:8-9)

5. We could not keep the law perfectly because of our sin.

Because we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, we are all condemned. (See also Romans 3:23.) Because God has accomplished what the law, weakened by the flesh, was unable to do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, God condemned sin in the flesh, allowing the righteous requirement of the law to be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:3-4; Romans 8:3) Although we understand that a person is not justified by works of the law, but rather by faith in Jesus Christ, we have also placed our faith in Christ Jesus, so that we may receive our justification through faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because no one will be justified by works of the law.

6. Any necessary works of ours would nullify the grace of God.

However, if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise, grace would cease to be grace and become something else. (See also Romans 11:6) I do not consider God’s grace to be invalidated, since if righteousness could only be obtained by the law, then Christ died in vain. Paul writes in Galatians 2:21 that

7. It is Jesus’ obedience that saves us, not our own.

As a result, just as one act of transgression resulted in the condemnation of all men, so one act of goodness results in the justification and salvation of all mankind. Because, just as many people were made sinners because of one man’s disobedience, many people will be made righteous because of one man’s faithfulness. (See Romans 5:18-19 for more information.) Now it is clear that no one can be justified before God by the law, because the Bible states that “the righteous shall live by faith.” Paul writes in Galatians 3:11.

8. Jesus paid our debts in full.

“Therefore, if the Son sets you free, you will really be set free.” (See also John 8:36) We were all dead in our trespasses and the uncircumcision of our flesh before God raised us up with him, having forgiven us all of our transgressions and annulled the record of debt that stood against us with its legal claims. It was this that he removed from the scene and nailed on the cross. (See Colossians 2:13-14 for further information.)

9. All believers stand justified before God in Jesus Christ alone.

It is also said that trust in the one who does not work, but believes in him who justifies the wicked, is reckoned as righteousness for him. (Romans 4:5). (Romans 4:5). As a result, because we have been justified by faith, we have been granted peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We have also gained access to this grace through trust in him, and we are rejoicing in the prospect of God’s glory as a result of this. (Rom. 5:1-2, emphasis added.) I was crucified with Christ, and I am no longer alive.

My trust in Jesus Christ, who loved me and gave himself up for me, allows me to live the life I am currently living in the body.

10. Believers are free from condemnation forever.

Therefore, people who believe in Jesus Christ are no longer under any condemnation whatsoever. You have been set free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death, because the law of the Spirit of life has set you free from the law of sin and death. (Rom. 8:1-2, NASB) And I am certain in this: he who began a good work in you will see it through to completion on the day of Jesus Christ, I am certain. In Philippians 1:6, the Bible says It is for this reason that he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified by the giving of a single sacrifice.

11. Our fruit is evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives, not our own faithfulness.

Stay with me, and I will stay with you. As the branch cannot give fruit on its own unless it is rooted in the vine, neither can you bear fruit on your own unless you are rooted in me. I’m the vine, and you’re the branches on which I grow. Because you can do nothing apart from me, whomever abides in me and I in him is the one who yields great fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. (See also John 15:4-5.) Moreover, it is not only the creation that groans inwardly, but also we ourselves, who are the firstfruits of the Spirit, who eagerly await our adoption as sons and the redemption of our bodies.

(See Romans 8:23 and 29.) Then there’ll be the comment, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith separate from your deeds, and I will demonstrate my faith by my deeds to you. (James 2:18; cf.

12. God has promised to justify— and glorify —every person he has predestined and called.

He also predetermined those who would believe, and those who believed were also justified, and those who were justifiably justified were also praised by God. (1 Corinthians 8:6). (Romans 8:30) And as we all gaze upon the Lord’s glory with an open face, we are converted into the same image, progressing from one degree of splendor to another, as we are transformed into the same image. Because this comes from the Lord, who is also known as the Spirit. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 3:18 that

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12 Reasons Why Jesus Meant It When He Said, “It Is Finished”

It is Jesus’ obedience, rather than our own, that saves us. As a result, just as one act of transgression resulted in the condemnation of all men, so one act of goodness results in the justification and salvation of all mankind. For just as one man’s disobedience resulted in the guilt of the whole world, so one man’s obedience will result in the righteousness of the whole world (Romans 5:18-19). Now it is clear that no one can be justified before God by the law, because the Bible states that “the righteous shall live by faith” (Galatians 3:11).

The good news is that there are twelve compelling reasons why Jesus truly meant it when he stated, “It is finished” (John 19:30).

1. Jesus—being true God and true human—was the perfect, once for all sacrifice for sin.

And the Word became man and lived among us, and we have beheld his glory, glory befitting the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth, as we have witnessed his incarnation. (See also John 1:14) Because Christ has entered into heaven itself, not into holy sanctuaries constructed by human hands that are mere replicas of the actual things, but into heaven itself in order to appear before God on our behalf. Not only was it not possible for him to give himself repeatedly, as the high priest accesses the sacred places every year using other people’s blood, but it was also not possible since he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the beginning of time.

(9:24-26; Hebrews 9:24-26)

2. Only Jesus kept the law fully—he was the true Son of Israel who loved God and his neighbor perfectly.

The Prophets and the Law were not abolished by Jesus; rather, they were fulfilled by him. “Do not believe that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matthew 5:17; Mark 1:17) So that we could become the righteousness of God in him, he turned him into sin who had no knowledge of sin for our own benefit. The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:21 that Because we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but rather one who has been tempted in every way we are, but has come out unscathed.

3. There is nothing we can add to Jesus’ finished work on our behalf.

He is not required to give sacrifices on a regular basis, first for his own sins and then for the sins of the people, as were those high priests, because he completed this task once and for all when he offered himself as a sacrifice. (See also Hebrews 7:27) However, once Christ had given a single sacrifice for all time, he was seated at the right side of the Father, awaiting judgment.

(See also Hebrews 10:12) “Therefore, when you have completed all that you were instructed, you should declare, ‘We are unworthy slaves; we have simply carried out our responsibilities.'” (See also Luke 17:10)

4. Salvation is God’s gift to us—and so is our faith.

However, the free gift is not the same as the trespass. Since many perished as a result of one man’s wrongdoing, God’s grace and the free gift provided by the grace of that one man, Jesus Christ, have multiplied for countless more. (See also Romans 5:15.) Because you have been rescued by grace through your faith, And this is not your own doing; it is a gift from God, not a product of your efforts, so that no one may take credit for what you have accomplished. The Bible says (Ephesians 2:8-9)

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5. We could not keep the law perfectly because of our sin.

Because we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, we are all condemned. (See also Romans 3:23.) Because God has accomplished what the law, weakened by the flesh, was unable to do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, God condemned sin in the flesh, allowing the righteous requirement of the law to be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:3-4; Romans 8:3) Although we understand that a person is not justified by works of the law, but rather by faith in Jesus Christ, we have also placed our faith in Christ Jesus, so that we may receive our justification through faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because no one will be justified by works of the law.

The Power of Jesus’ Last Words: The Meaning Behind ‘It Is Finished’

They signify that Christ has triumphed over the world. The victory has been gained by Him, and we are also more than conquerors as a result of His victory. They signify that we have been set free. They imply that He made the sacrifice on our behalf. They imply that there is nothing we could ever achieve outside of our connection with Christ in order to win God’s favor or affection for ourselves. They imply that He is providing us with a free gift. They indicate that the path has been cleaned.

They are implying that forgiveness is available via Jesus.

That they exist means that we are loved more deeply than we could possibly comprehend.

How Can We Find Peace and Courage from Jesus?

Do not lose heart if you find yourself in a difficult situation today, my friends. True peace can only be found in the person of Jesus Christ. He reminded us in His message that we would face difficulties in this life, but that we might take strength in the fact that He had overcome the world (John 16:33). Regardless of the difficulties we may experience in this life, we will never be alone because He will always be with us. He will never forsake us in our tribulations, nor will he allow us to figure things out for ourselves.

However, He invites us to pick up our own cross and follow Him, to be salt and light in the world, and to walk in love with others.

And He has plans for you and me to make a difference in these days, to make a difference in the life of another human, all for the sake of His glory.

And that, in Him, we will discover freedom from concern as we let go of the tension that clings to us too tightly, the urgent demands of tomorrow, and the problems we are currently facing, allowing us to completely accept His gift of forgiveness and love in our lives.

He is known as the Overcomer. And we are never on our own. Peace. Getty Images/ipopba provided the photograph.

Why Does Jesus Say “It Is Finished”?

“After receiving the sour wine, Jesus declared, ‘It is done,’ and he bent his head and surrendered his spirit” (John 19:30). Tetelestai, the project is complete. We’ve all heard these words, no sure, at a Good Friday service or when reading from the Bible on Easter Sunday. Nevertheless, why does Jesus say it? And why would he save this as his ultimate and concluding statement? His use of the phrase “it is completed” suggests that he has drank the cup of God’s anger and that, as a result of his sacrifice, a bridge between God and sinful man has been built.

The Context Surrounding John 19:30

When we consider the context of this passage and the events that preceded it, the following comment from St. Peter’s Anglican Church explains it all: “Prior to His arrest by the Romans, Jesus uttered His final public prayer, in which He requested the Father to honor Him in the same way that He had glorified the Father before His imprisonment. He prayed for the ability to “complete the task you have given me to perform” (John 17:4). In order to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10), Jesus’ mission is to give atonement for sinners whom he killed in order to bring them back into right relationship with God (Romans 3:23-25; 2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

What Did Jesus Finish at the Cross?

When it says it is accomplished, it refers to Christ having completed the redemption work he had begun since the first prophesy in Genesis 3. (and likely much before then). There was a cup of wrath in the globe when sin joined the human race. Either man or God would have to consume it. As a result, Jesus set out to fulfill the more than 300 prophesies revealed in the Old Testament, which predicted God’s coming to earth and taking our place on the cross.

What Else Did Jesus Say on the Cross?

The Seven Last Words of Jesus are as follows: -Luke 23:34, and several passages “Father, pardon them since they are completely unaware of what they are doing.” A large number of individuals in the crowd at Golgotha hurled insults at Jesus. Jesus begs God to pardon them for not realizing what they were getting themselves into. “Truly, I tell to you, today you will be with me in paradise,” says Jesus in Luke 23:43. While on the cross, Jesus informs the other robber, who has requested that Jesus remember him, of this fact.

“Son, take a look at your mother.” Mary is informed of this by Jesus, who then instructs the disciple John to look for her.

When the burden of the Father’s guilt and anger is laid on Jesus, the Father turns his back on him.

“I am thirsty,” says Jesus in John 19:28.

“It is finished,” says Jesus in John 19:30. in Luke 23:46, “Then Jesus cried out with a loud voice and exclaimed to the Father: “Father, into your hands I submit my spirit!” (Luke 23:46) After saying this, he took his final breath.” Getty Images/Romolo Tavani is credited with this image.

What Does “It Is Finished” Mean for Us Today?

When it comes to sin, no matter how much our culture tells us to “lift yourself up by your bootstraps,” we have absolutely nothing we can do. We have waged a war against an everlasting debt (Romans 3:23), and someone needs to bear the burden of paying it. It is a blessing that Christ chose to take our place on the cross. The fact that the Old Testament contained so many sacrifices was partly due to the fact that it foretold Christ’s work on the cross. As a sign of the lamb taking the place of the family’s sins in the Old Testament, a family would sacrifice a spotless lamb, one that had not been blemished, as a symbol of the lamb taking the place of the family.

However, it assisted them in realizing that they were suffering from a grievous spiritual illness and that they required the intervention of a Savior to save them.

When we acknowledge that it is ended, we may stop attempting to clean up our act before “making good,” and instead, come to Christ as shattered sinners in desperate need of forgiveness.

The more we comprehend the vast tale of God’s love, the more we will be able to comprehend how profound God’s agape love is for us.

What Does it Mean That Jesus Is a “New Covenant”?

The Old Testament has a number of covenants that we might learn about. According to people unfamiliar with the covenant model, the two parties would agree on the parameters of an agreement, which was then used to cut an animal in half. In a sense, they were saying, “If I don’t maintain my side of the agreement, may what happened to this animal happen to me.” They would then walk across the pieces of the dead animal, basically declaring, Some of the covenants found in the Old Testament are as follows: In the Noahic Covenant, God creates a rainbow in the sky, signifying that he would never again flood the entire globe.

  1. God tells Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars if he follows his instructions.
  2. The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, travels through the animal, demonstrating that he will carry out his promise.
  3. Matthew 1 has a genealogy that demonstrates how this is fulfilled.
  4. According to Sam Storms on Crosswalk, “the Old or Mosaic Covenant was a transitory arrangement.
  5. God never meant for the Old Covenant to be in effect in perpetuity.

Because of the words of Hebrews 8:5, we know that Moses’ work erecting and consecration of the Old Covenant tabernacle, as well as its ceremonies and sacrifices, were just “a type and shadow of the heavenly things.” In other words, while the Old Covenant for Israel was effective for a while, the people desired something more permanent and eternal for themselves.

This is where Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection come into play. Featured image courtesy of Getty Images/fizkes

What Does the New Covenant Mean for Us?

Because we did not live during Jesus’ lifetime, the New Covenant signifies a variety of things to us, some of which we may not fully appreciate because we did not grow up in his world. We have the ability to approach God with confidence through prayer. Previously, only the High Priest was permitted to access the holiest area of the Temple on exceptional occasions, as dictated by the Old Covenant’s administrative system. He had to perform the ceremonies perfectly, or he would face certain death.

  • As a result of this, they meet an immediate end.
  • We may come to him with our grievances, our wants, and our thanksgivings.
  • God extends an invitation to everyone to participate in the New Covenant.
  • Gentiles, on the other hand, are grafted in by God in the New Testament.
  • The New Covenant was considered highly scandalous in the Early Church since it was the first time that Gentiles had been given the opportunity to be called children of God.
  • The New Covenant, on the other hand, allows us to have a better appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice.
  • Featured picture courtesy of Getty Images/m-imagephotography She is a multi-published author and a graduate of the professional writing program at Taylor University, where she studied creative writing.
  • As a writer and editor, she has worked for a number of different publishing firms as well as periodicals, newspapers, and literary agencies, and she has worked with writers such as Jerry B.
  • Her modern-day Daniel trilogy, published by IlluminateYA, is now available.
  • Her inspirational adult novel Picture Imperfect, which will be released in November of 2021, will also be released.

What is the Meaning and Significance of “It is Finished”? Jesus’ Words in John 19:30

Because we did not live during Jesus’ lifetime, the New Covenant signifies a variety of things to us, some of which we may not recognize or appreciate as much as we should. Our prayers can be bold and direct towards God. Before, only the High Priest could enter the holiest area of the Temple on rare occasions because of the framework of the Old Covenant. He had to do the ceremonies perfectly, or else he would face death as a result of them. Throughout Leviticus 10, we see this shown by the odd fire that Aaron’s sons present.

  • In prayer, however, we may now express ourselves freely to God.
  • A personal connection with him is possible, something that neither the prophets nor patriarchs could have imagined in their wildest fantasies.
  • As recorded in the Old Testament, God personally chose Israel as his chosen nation.
  • The term “Gentiles” applies to the majority of us, even though some of us are of Israelite heritage.
  • The good news is that now, everybody who surrenders their lives to Christ has the opportunity to be grafted into God’s family as well (Galatians 6:28).
  • The extent of his sacrifice for us, and the opportunity to spend eternity with him, becomes clear.
  • She is a multi-published novelist and a graduate of the professional writing program at Taylor University, where she studied creative nonfiction writing.
  • In her previous work, she has edited the work of authors such as Jerry B.
  • In collaboration with IlluminateYA, she has published a modern-day Daniel trilogy.

She is also a co-author of the Dear Heroduology, which was published by INtense Publications and is available for purchase. Picture Imperfect, her inspirational adult novel, is set to be released in November of 2021 by HarperTeen. Her website contains additional information about her.

None But Jesus Can Say It Is Finished

Prior to His arrest by the Romans, Jesus recited His final public prayer, in which He requested the Father to honor Him in the same way that He had glorified the Father before His imprisonment. He prayed for the ability to “complete the task you have given me to perform” (John 17:4). The job of Jesus is to seek and rescue those who are lost (Luke 19:10), as well as to give atonement for sinners who have been reconciled to God by his death on the cross (Romans 3:23-25;2 Corinthians 5:18-19). “It is completed,” says the God-Man with the authority of the God-Man, for no one else but the Lord God could complete the task (John 19:30).

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The Meaning if “It is Finished”

Prior to His arrest by the Romans, Jesus recited His final public prayer, in which He requested the Father to honor Him in the same way that He had glorified the Father before His death. He asked God to help him “do the task you have given me” (John 17:4). In order to find and save the lost (Luke 19:10), Jesus’ mission is to give atonement for sinners who have been reconciled to God through his death on the cross (Luke 19:11). (Romans 3:23-25;2 Corinthians 5:18-19). “It is completed,” says the God-Man with the authority only he has, for no one else could do it (John 19:30).

Further Commentary onJohn 19:30

John Gills explains: “He said it was finished,” he says “that is, the entire will of God, such as that he should become incarnate, be exposed to shame and reproach, suffer greatly, and die; the entire work his Father assigned him to do, which was to preach the Gospel, work miracles, and obtain eternal salvation for his people, all of which had been completed, or was nearly completed; the entire righteousness of the law had been fulfilled, a holy nature assumed, perfect obedience yielded to it, and the penalty of death endured; and thus a perfect righteousness had as well as redemption from its curse and condemnation were obtained; sin was put to an end, as well as full atonement and satisfaction for it; complete pardon was procured, peace was established, and redemption from all iniquity obtained; all enemies were defeated; all types, promises, and prophecies were fulfilled, as well as his own course of life came to an end: Because all of this was nearing completion, and was as good as completed, and was certain and certain, and so complete that nothing needed, or could be added to it; and it was done entirely without the assistance of man, and cannot be undone; all of which has since been made more clearly apparent by Christ’s resurrection from the dead, his entrance into heaven, his session at God’s right hand, the declaration of the Gospel, and the application of salvationism.”

WhatJohn 19:30Means for Us

Jesus’ words of completion on the cross indicate that He has provided the sole remedy to man’s sin as well as the only road to God via His sacrifice on the cross (John 14:6;Acts 4:12). The death of Christ is the sole means by which Christians may put their sins to death and put on the righteousness of Christ (Colossians 3:5-14). Christians are not expected to subdue sin in a weekend (Romans 7:13-25), but rather to despise and fight it, employing the God-given resources of grace to do so (Romans 12:1-8).

Although this is the case, they must confess their wrongdoing to Jesus, who is trustworthy and righteous in forgiving them and restoring their connection with Him (1 John 1:9).

Because Jesus’ work is complete, the Kingdom of Jesus has triumphed over the Kingdom of Satan.

As recorded in Luke 11:21-22 and Revelation 20:1-2, Jesus has chained the strong man and looted his home, creating a road to heaven, where He is now preparing a place for His followers to live (John 14:1-3).

Jesus’ Victory over Death is Final

Jesus vanquished death in principle via His death and resurrection, and with His conclusive victory over death, He has now triumphed over death and the tomb. Despite this, bodily and spiritual death are prevalent, which is why the people of God lament until the Lord releases creation from its shackles of rot and decaying (Romans 8:18-24). While there is a great deal to say about Jesus’ accomplished work, it is vital to point out a couple of additional points. The pain that Jesus underwent while on earth was finally brought to an end when He exclaimed, “It is finished.” Because of Jesus’ absolute obedience to the Father, the Father’s desire for him was fully fulfilled on the cross (John 5:30; 6:38).

(Ephesians 2:5).

The Crucifixion of Jesus — His Last Words on the Cross

During Jesus’ mission, a large number of Jews came to believe that He was the Son of God. The Jewish authorities were terrified of Jesus, and the Roman troops apprehended him with the assistance of Judas Iscariot. Jesus was then placed on trial for claiming to be the Jewish monarch, which resulted in his execution. Death by crucifixion was the punishment for rebelling against Caesar under Roman law in the first century AD. At the time of Jesus’ arrest, Pontius Pilate served as the governor. Pilate was apprehensive when it came to punishing Jesus since he could find nothing wrong with Him.

  1. After washing his hands in front of the assembled audience, Pilate said that he was not responsible for the bloodshed that had taken place.
  2. Jesus was beaten and forced to carry the cross to Golgotha, the location of the skull, where He died.
  3. Thousands of people gathered to Golgotha to witness Jesus’ death.
  4. Even when Jesus was being ridiculed, one of the convicts approached Jesus and requested him to remember him (Luke 23:42), and Jesus obliged (Luke 23:43).
  5. After taking his final breath, Jesus exclaimed, “Father, into your hands I submit my soul; it is accomplished” (Luke 23:46).

The Last 7 Words of Jesus

1 “Father, pardon them since they are unaware of what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). “I truly believe that you will be with me in paradise today,” says the narrator in verse 2. (Luke 23:43). “Women, have a look at your son. “Look, son, there’s your mother” (John 19:26-27). “My God, My God, why have you abandoned me?” says the narrator. It is written in the Bible (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34). “I’m thirsty,” says number five (John 19:28). “It has come to an end” (John 19:30). When Jesus said, “Father, into your hands I submit my spirit!” he did so with a loud shout.

As soon as he finished speaking, he passed away (Luke 23:46). iStock/Getty Images Plus/mbolina is credited with this image Dave Jenkins and his wife, Sarah Jenkins, are in a happy marriage. He is a writer, editor, and public speaker who resides in the lovely state of Oregon.

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

QuestionAnswer No other of Christ’s last words said on the cross is more meaningful or more tragic than the words, “It is completed.” The Greek phrase istetelestai, which is translated as “it is done,” is used exclusively in the Gospel of John and is an accounting term that implies “paid in full.” As soon as Jesus spoke those words, He was proclaiming that the debt owed to His Father had been entirely and permanently discharged.

  1. It is not that Jesus paid off any debts that He owed to the Father; rather, Jesus paid off the obligation that people owed to the Father—the debt of sin.
  2. According to Luke 19:10, the mission of Jesus was to “seek and rescue that which is lost,” to atone for the sins of those who would ever believe in Him (Romans 3:23-25), and to bring sinful humanity back into right relationship with a holy God.
  3. No one else except God in the flesh was capable of accomplishing such a feat.
  4. Throughout the Bible, from Genesis to Malachi, there are over 300 specific prophesies that point to the arrival of the Anointed One, all of which were fulfilled by Jesus.
  5. Despite the fact that the redemption of mankind is the most essential completed work, the cross also completed a number of other tasks.
  6. God’s desire for Jesus was carried out via His flawless obedience to the Father in the person of Jesus (John 5:30; 6:38).
  7. The “flaming arrows of the wicked one” would no longer be a threat to mankind’s survival (Ephesians 6:16).

Return to the previous page: Do you have any questions about John? Is it clear what Jesus meant when He stated, “It is completed?”

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Tetelestai – It Is Finished!

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  • He suffered our griefs and sorrows
  • He was wounded for our trespasses
  • He was bruised for our iniquities
  • He was punished for our peace
  • He was scourged for our healing
  • He was scourged for our salvation.

In the days before Jesus’ crucifixion, the Bible records that “they gave him vinegar to drink mixed with gall.” (Matthew 27:34; Mark 10:45). As we saw in Chapter 25, an individual who was about to be killed might request that a narcotic be mixed with wine in order to aid ease the pain of his death, as we saw in Chapter 25. This line contains the term “gall,” which is a peculiar Greek word that refers to a painkiller that was mixed with wine, as previously stated. “When Jesus, therefore, had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bent his head and gave up the ghost,” according to John 19:30.

Create your own copy of this wonderful daily devotional to use in the lead-up to Easter.

Original Translation and Meaning of “It Is Finished”

tetelestai is the perfect indicative passive tense of the Greek wordtelos, which meaning to terminate; to bring to a close; to complete; to achieve; to fulfill; or to complete. Anything that has reachedtelos, according to one scholar, has achieved its apogee in terms of completeness, maturity, or perfection. Despite the fact that this term has various connotations, four of them are particularly significant in relation to the defining moment of Christ’s sacrifice. Here are four examples of how Jesus’ final words on the cross might be used in specific situations.

1. This was Jesus’ exclamation that He had finished the work the Father had sent Him to do.

As soon as the task was over, Jesus took a deep breath and died on the cross. According to one writer, when a servant was dispatched on an assignment and afterwards returned to his master, he would remark, “Telelestai,” which translated as “I have completed exactly what you wanted” or “The mission has been completed.” When Jesus shouted out in that moment, he was proclaiming to the entire cosmos that He had faithfully carried out the Father’s purpose and that the mission had been completed.

It’s no surprise that Jesus exclaimed 34%, for this was the greatest triumph in the history of the human race!

But the battle was finally finished, and Jesus was able to exclaim to the Father, “I have completed exactly what You ordered Me to do!” Alternatively, “The task has been completed!”

2. The wordtetelestaiwas the equivalent of the Hebrew word spoken by the high priest when he presented a sacrificial lamb without spot or blemish.

Every year, the high priest entered the Holy of Holies, where he poured the blood of the sacrificial spotless lamb on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant, marking the beginning of the New Covenant. At the instant the blood reached the mercy seat, atonement was made for the sins of the people for one more year, until the high priest would step beyond the veil of the holy room to offer blood once again for the forgiveness of their sins. They repeated this process year after year to gain the yearly, transitory pardon of sin from the Almighty.

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In that sacred moment, Jesus, in His capacity as our Great High Priest, sacrificed His own blood in exchange for the forgiveness of sins.

It was at this point that Jesus entered the Holy Place and sacrificed His own blood – a sacrifice so perfect that God no longer required the blood of lambs to be shed in order to forgive sins.

Atonement had been completed, perfected, and totally achieved when Jesus died. It was completed once and for all – completed for all time!

3. In a secular sense, the wordtetelestaiwas used in the business world to signifythe full payment of a debt.

When a debt was totally paid off, the parchment on which the debt was written was marked withtetelestai, which signified that the debt had been fully paid off. If someone makes Jesus the Lord of their lives and personally accepts His sacrifice, they are no longer liable for the debt of sin that they have accrued. Because Jesus paid the penalty for sin that no other sinner could ever pay, the debt has been discharged. Jesus stepped in to fill our shoes. He paid the debt we owed to God as a result of our sin.

“In him we have redemption by his blood, even the forgiveness of our sins,” wrote Paul, “in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of our sins” (Colossians 1:14) Jesus’ proclamation that the debt had been entirely settled, fulfilled, and completed was expressed in the words, “It is finished!” His blood washed away all of our sins and purified us for all time.

4.In classical Greek times, the wordtetelestaidepicteda turning point when one period ended and another new period began.

When Jesus screamed, “It is finished!” it marked a watershed event in the whole history of mankind, for it was at that instant that the Old Testament came to an end – that it was completed and closed – and the New Testament was officially launched. In human history, the Cross has been referred to as “the Great Divide.” He was proclaiming that the Old Covenant had come to an end and that the New Covenant had begun when he said, “It is completed!” All of the Old Testament predictions regarding Jesus’ earthly career were fulfilled at one glorious moment when Jesus cried out, “It is finished.” The Lamb of God had completely fulfilled and satisfied the demands of God’s justice.

  1. The sacrifices of the Old Testament came to an end at that point, because the perfect Sacrifice had laid down His life for the salvation of all people.
  2. As a result, He was able to proclaim that His mission was completed!
  3. Because Jesus paid the price for our salvation with His own blood, the words “PAID IN FULL” have been inscribed on our previous sinful record to remind us of what has happened.
  4. So keep this in mind:
  • In the event that you are overtaken by anguish, remember that Jesus suffered your sorrow. If you find yourself overcome by sadness, remember that He has taken your burden. If you find yourself bound in a life of transgression, keep in mind that He was wounded as a result of your sins. It is possible to be forgiven if one is living in sin since Christ was bruised for one’s transgressions. If you are tortured and unable to find peace, remember that He was punished for your lack of peace. If you are suffering from a physical or mental illness, keep in mind that He was wounded for your healing.

You owe nothing to anybody but Jesus, who paid the ultimate price for your redemption, your emancipation, your bodily recovery, and your total restoration. When the payment for your redemption had been paid in full, Jesus bent His head and died on the cross. God’s just judgment had been carried out. The Old Covenant had come to an end, and the New Covenant was about to commence. It marked the completion of one project and the commencement of another. Consider the price that Jesus paid and the work that His death performed on your behalf.

Is it possible that you would not be where you are now if Jesus had not died on the Cross for you? Why don’t you spend a few minutes right now to express your genuine gratitude to Jesus for paying the debt you could never have paid on your own?

Think About It

On the cross of Calvary, Jesus was subjected to excruciatingly agonizing suffering, humiliation, and disgrace. Death by crucifixion was seen as so scandalous that it permanently altered the way in which the person who died in this manner was remembered. Consider the type of death that Jesus endured in order to purchase your freedom from the grip of sin in your life. Given the severity of the punishment for sin, why would you allow it to remain in any aspect of your life at all? The entire cosmos beheld Jesus’ faithful fulfillment of the Father’s will as His spotless, holy blood was spilled on the earth.

  • It’s important to remember how much it took Jesus to say, “It is done.” Ask yourself: Am I willing to pick up MY cross, day by day, decision by choice, to obey the will of the Father for my life, opportunity after opportunity?
  • What would you do if you were suddenly able to pay off every debt and credit-card charge you had accrued?
  • Consider the far-reaching implications of that statement of reality.
  • Jesus paid your bill, erased your debt, and left you with a zero amount on your credit card account!
  • The following is an excerpt from Rick Renner’s book Paid In Full: An In-Depth Look at the Defining Moment of Christ’s Passion.
  • Rick Renner is a widely renowned leader, teacher, and author in the worldwide Christian community, best known for his work in the former Soviet Union and his interpretation of the Greek New Testament.
  • Rick went to the University of Oklahoma, where he majored in Classical Greek, Journalism, and Mass Communication, among other things.
  • His extensive knowledge of Greek is demonstrated in his book Sparkling Gems of the Greek, which has sold more than 100,000 copies worldwide.
  • He also founded the Good News Association of Churches and Ministries for Russia, Latvia, and Ukraine, which assists approximately 700 churches throughout the country.
  • Dressed to Kill (which has sold more than 400,000 copies),Ten Guidelines to Help You Achieve Your Long-Awaited Promotion,Point of No Return,Insights on Successful Leadership, and other best-sellers are among his many publications.

Rick and his wife, Denise, live in Russia with their three kids, Paul, Philip, and Joel, who are also actively involved in the ministry. Rick and Denise have been married for almost 30 years.

It Is Finished. The Last Words of Jesus.

The torment, humiliation, and disgrace that Jesus suffered on the cross of Calvary were excruciatingly terrible. crucifixion was deemed so scandalous that the person who died in this manner was permanently marked as such for the rest of time. Consider the type of death that Jesus endured in order to purchase your freedom from the grip of sin in your heart. Given the severity of the punishment for sin, why would you let it to persist in any aspect of your life? Because of Jesus’ spotless and holy blood being spilled on the ground, all of creation witnessed His faithful fulfillment of the Father’s plan.

  • It’s important to remember how much it took Jesus to say, “It is completed.” Take stock of your willingness to pick up MY cross my opportunity to do what the Father desires for my life, decision by choice, day by day: Are you willing?
  • Your debt to sin has been completely paid for by Jesus on the cross of Calvary.
  • It is not your right to be oppressed or forced to do anything by illness, anguish, sadness, or guilt.
  • What impact should that fact have on your day-to-day speech and actions?
  • This is a licensed use.
  • He is most recognized for his work in the former Soviet Union and for his interpretation of the Greek New Testament.
  • In the years that followed, he continued his in-depth study of the Greek New Testament, eventually gaining a Doctor of Philosophy in Ministry degree.
  • Rick founded and serves as the senior pastor of the Moscow Good News Church, which is the largest and fastest-growing church in Russia.
  • Rick also founded “It’s Possible!,” a humanitarian foundation that currently distributes vitamins to thousands of pensioners in Moscow on a monthly basis while also providing assistance to their prison ministry, orphanages, and feeding the hungry.
  • His daily television show, “Good News with Rick Renner,” has a potential audience of 100 million people across Russia, according to the company.

They live in Russia with their three kids, Paul, Philip, and Joel, all of whom are actively involved in the ministry. Rick and his wife, Denise, are also missionaries in Russia with their three sons.

Tetelestai – The Sacrifice Is Accomplished

There would have been no doubt in the minds of any Jewish person present that this word was the English translation of a Hebrew phrase that was employed in the Old Testament sacrifice system. During the Jewish festival of The Day of Atonement, the High Priest would enter the temple and offer a unique sacrifice in atonement for the sins of the whole nation of Israel. The priest would emerge from the site of sacrifice as soon as the animal had been slaughtered and proclaim to the waiting throng in Hebrew that “it is completed.” All of Israel’s sins were symbolically imputed to the lamb, which was then slaughtered and punished in their place, as part of this sacrifice.

However, when Jesus died on the cross, he was recognized as the one acceptable and ultimate sacrifice for all sin.

He did not enter via the blood of goats and calves, but he entered the Most Holy Place once and for all with the blood of his own blood, having gained permanent redemption.

Hebrews 9:12; Hebrews 9:26 In other words, when Jesus said “it is completed,” he was communicating to the Jewish world that there was no longer a need for sacrifices or temple building since his act had delivered final fulfillment to what their sacrificial system had prophesied.

Tetelestai – The Work Is Complete

When an employee had completed a day’s labor or completed a job in New Testament times, he would inform his or her superior by saying “tetelestai,” which means “completed.” This was to indicate that whatever it was that he had been assigned to undertake had now been finished successfully. An artist would have a moment of revealing when his work of art was finished, during which he would exclaim “tetelestai,” or “completed.” This was also intended to serve as a signal that his masterwork had been completed.

When Jesus arrived to this planet, he made it clear what his mission was: to bring redemption to a lost and broken world, which he accomplished.

Luke 19:10 (KJV) As a result, Jesus’ final remarks conveyed the message that the task he came to complete had been completed.

There were no more modifications or additions required – salvation had been achieved.

Tetelestai – The Debt Is Paid in Full

In Jesus’ day, debt collection was perhaps the most prevalent application of the term “tetelestai.” When a person ultimately paid off a loan, they were given a receipt that was stamped with the word “tetelestai,” which signified that their debt had been completely paid off by that point. This served as confirmation that they were no longer liable for any of the debt and that all they owed had been entirely and permanently paid for by their creditors. Apparently, our sin caused a debt to God, which we would never be able to repay on our own, according to the Bible.

Once again, the Book of Hebrews emphasizes the finality of Jesus’ payment for our sin on the cross.

And he took his position at God’s right hand, where he had earned it. Furthermore, after sins have been forgiven, there is no longer any need to make additional offerings. The book of Hebrews 10:12-13 and 18

It Is Finished

Everything about tetelestai is subtle, yet they all work together to express a wonderful truth: that Jesus finished the work of redemption once and for all. Because Jesus took care of everything, it is not our responsibility to finish or complete anything, or to conclude anything in our salvation. Because we have placed our faith in Jesus’ finished work, we may rest certain that we are saved and follow God with all of our hearts now that we have placed our trust in him.

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