In a Nutshell:

Colin taught us that Jesus’ cry of “It is finished” (Tetelestai) on the cross was a victorious declaration that our debt of sin has been completely paid. This truth is the foundation for how we live every day.

Anchor Verse:

John 19:30 (NIV) “When Jesus had received the drink, he said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”

Unpacking the Word:

The single phrase, “It is finished,” uttered by Jesus in His final moments on the cross, carries a weight of significance that reverberates through eternity. The original Greek word, “Tetelestai,” was not a cry of defeat, but rather a triumphant shout of accomplishment. Imagine a merchant stamping “PAID IN FULL” on a debt, a soldier declaring a mission “completed,” or a servant announcing a task “fully accomplished.” This was the essence of Jesus’ declaration.

He wasn’t merely saying that His earthly life was ending; He was proclaiming the complete fulfillment of His mission. This mission encompassed several crucial aspects. Firstly, it signified the full and final payment for our sins. The penalty that separated us from a holy God was fully satisfied by Jesus’ sacrifice. There is no remaining debt, no further obligation for us to fulfill in order to earn God’s favor.

Secondly, Jesus’ cry marked the completion of all the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. From His miraculous birth to His sacrificial death, every detail foretold in Scripture found its fulfillment in Jesus. This confirms His identity as the promised Savior and validates the divine plan of redemption.

Furthermore, “Tetelestai” declared the culmination of Jesus’ perfect life of obedience. He lived the sinless life that we could never achieve, perfectly adhering to God’s law in every thought, word, and deed. This perfect obedience was offered as the acceptable sacrifice for our imperfections.

Finally, His declaration announced that the way back to God had been fully opened. The barrier of sin that separated humanity from their Creator was now removed. Through Jesus’ finished work, we have access to the Father’s presence, a privilege previously unattainable. The victory was won at the cross, laying the groundwork for the resurrection and our new life in Christ.

Pause and Reflect:

What areas of your life do you still feel like you need to “pay off” or earn God’s approval? How does understanding the fullness of “Tetelestai” change your perspective on your past mistakes and future anxieties? In what ways might you be unintentionally adding to the finished work of Christ in your pursuit of God?

Faith in Action:

Today, take a moment to identify one area where you feel the need to strive for God’s acceptance. Consciously release that burden, acknowledging that Jesus has already paid the full price. Throughout the day, when that feeling creeps back in, remind yourself, “It is finished.”

A Moment With God:

Father, thank You for the all-encompassing declaration of “It is finished.” Help me to truly grasp the depth of this truth and to rest in the complete payment made for my sins.

---