When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. – John 19:30
Understanding the Finish Line
As we reflect on the mighty declaration “It is finished,” we come to understand the significance behind these words spoken by Jesus on the cross. Throughout our lives, we encounter various finishes, from completing a school year to reaching personal goals. Yet, nothing compares to the completion of Christ’s redemptive work. His pronouncement signifies that the struggle against sin has come to an end, offering us an incredible gift of salvation. We are encouraged to carry this message in our hearts, recognizing that we are now free from the chains that once bound us. Our journey doesn’t end there, but this act of completion links us to something much more profound, inspiring us to share this hope with the world.
John 19:30
When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. – John 19:30
Romans 6:10
The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. – Romans 6:10
Colossians 2:14
Having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. – Colossians 2:14
Hebrews 10:14
For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. – Hebrews 10:14
1 Peter 2:24
He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. – 1 Peter 2:24
Embracing Our New Identity
In light of the completion that Jesus accomplished, we are invited to embrace our new identity as children of God. The phrase “It is finished” not only secures our salvation but also transforms us into a new creation. This means we are no longer defined by our past mistakes or failures. Instead, we stand in the grace and love of our Savior. As a community, we uplift one another to live out this new identity and grow into the people God has called us to be. We gather in fellowship, encouraging each other to remember who we are in Christ and to walk boldly in that truth.
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. – Galatians 2:20
Romans 8:1
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. – Romans 8:1
Colossians 3:3
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. – Colossians 3:3
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10
Living in Victory
Knowing that Jesus declared “It is finished,” we find profound encouragement to live each day in victory and confidence. The battle against sin is won, and we have the authority to overcome the challenges that life brings. Together, we can lift each other up when struggles arise. By leaning on the word of God and supporting each other, we reclaim our faith and stand firm in our victory. With Christ as our guide, we are empowered to declare our freedom and walk in faith, knowing that our future is secure.
1 John 5:4
For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. – 1 John 5:4
Romans 8:37
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. – Romans 8:37
James 4:7
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. – James 4:7
Philippians 4:13
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13
2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. – 2 Timothy 1:7
Impacting Lives Through Servanthood
As we grasp the meaning behind “It is finished,” we become eager to live out our faith through service to others. Jesus’ sacrifice teaches us the importance of servanthood in relationships. By sharing our time, talents, and hearts with those in need, we embody Christ’s love in a tangible way. We create a ripple effect of hope and encouragement, reminding others of the grace we have received. In our community, we must always strive to uplift those around us and share how we can serve together for the greater purpose of spreading the love of Christ.
Galatians 5:13
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. – Galatians 5:13
Mark 10:45
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. – Mark 10:45
1 Peter 4:10
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. – 1 Peter 4:10
John 13:14
Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. – John 13:14
Matthew 25:40
The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Matthew 25:40
Finding Peace in Completion
In our lives, we can often find ourselves stricken with anxiety and worry. Yet, knowing that “It is finished” instills a profound peace within our hearts. When Jesus declared these words, He made reconciliation available to us, allowing us to rest in the safety of His love. Through prayer and surrender, we can cast our cares upon Him, knowing that He bears our burdens. As a community of believers, we must support one another by sharing our worries and focusing on the peace that comes from trusting in God’s plan.
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. – John 14:27
Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you. – Isaiah 26:3
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. – Romans 15:13
Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11:28
Sharing the Good News
Finally, as we reflect on “It is finished,” we are encouraged to actively share the gospel with others. Jesus’ work on the cross changed everything for us, and this message must be shared widely. Each of us has a story to tell about how we have experienced His love and grace, and together we can bring hope and transformation to those still searching. It is our joy and responsibility to spread this good news and invite others into a relationship with Jesus.
Mark 16:15
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” – Mark 16:15
Matthew 28:19-20
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. – Acts 1:8
1 Peter 3:15
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. – 1 Peter 3:15
Luke 4:18-19
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. – Luke 4:18-19
Final Thoughts
The words “It is finished” resonate deeply within us as believers, marking the end of a monumental struggle and the beginning of our new lives in Christ. We can find encouragement in knowing that Jesus completed His work on the cross, freeing us from the bondage of sin and allowing us to embrace our identities as His cherished children. With this truth at the forefront, we live with victory, peace, and a heart for servanthood.
As we support one another in the faith, we remain committed to sharing this impactful message of hope with those around us. We can take comfort in the knowledge that we are called to spread the good news and invite others into the transformative love of Jesus. Let us walk together in faith, embracing all that has been accomplished for us on the cross and declaring His grace to the world.
As we continue exploring, we encourage you to learn more about God’s promises, such as fulfillment in God and forgiveness and redemption. The journey of faith is ever enriching, and we are excited to walk alongside you in these discoveries.