It is finished

About 2,000 years ago, Jesus was crucified on a cross on a hill called Golgotha. Scripture records in John 19:30 that after about six hours of intense pain, humiliation and suffering, Jesus cried out, “‘It is finished’ and gave up his spirit.”

Our understanding of what Jesus meant by “it is finished” hinges upon our understanding of who Jesus really was and is. Did Jesus mean to say that his run of popularity was over and all he had been trying to do was over?

Most certainly not, for three days later he proved this theory false when he once again appeared to his disciples to continue to teach and lead them towards their ministry. Jesus simple statement, “it is finished” speaks volumes about the completion of the work his Father had given him. The ultimate fulfillment of the sacrificial system by the spotless Lamb of God, the satisfaction of the debt owed to a just and Holy God, the redemption of the world through the shed blood of Christ.

Our best attempts to gain favor from God are as “filthy rags” to him (read Isaiah 64:6). It is perfectly clear in scripture that our attempts to satisfy God fall woefully short. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 (NKJV)).

We must remember that while we feel it is more satisfying, more logical or even more understandable, that our good behavior, our good works, our being a “good person” would bring us closer to God, our attempts to do so completely negate the words of our Lord and Savior when he said “it is finished.” Our debt has been paid, God is waiting for us to accept the offer of eternal life he made, once for all. God bless.

Scott Bloomquist

Calvary Baptist Church