"It is finished" (John 19:30)
The verse signifies JESUS’ completed work of salvation, paying our debt in full, it’s a declaration of finished atonement, liberation from sin's penalty, and a call to rest in His finished grace, not striving, but living in the righteousness He secured for us. The Blood of JESUS that was shed on the Cross focuses on this completed work, while a good prayer expresses gratitude and asks for help living in that finished freedom, trusting His sufficient sacrifice for all our needs, from guilt to the healing of our bodies.
JESUS’ cry, "It is finished!" was the ultimate declaration of victory and completion. It wasn't a sigh of defeat, but a shout of triumph, announcing that the full price for humanity's sin was paid. This Greek word, Tetelestai, was used by ancient accountants to mark a debt as fully settled—paid in full!. Because JESUS finished the work of redemption on the cross, there's nothing we can add to earn our salvation; it's a finished gift. This truth frees us from striving and empowers us to live in the glorious freedom and righteousness He purchased, allowing GOD to work in us, not us working for Him. On the other hand, as CHRIST redeemed us from sin, GOD’s Word also declares that by the stripes of JESUS, we have been healed (Isaiah 53:4-5).
PSALM 107:20
“He sent out His Word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.”
Prayer:
Dearest Lord JESUS, thank You for your perfect, finished work on the cross. You paid the debt I could never repay and bore the punishment I deserved, bringing peace and healing. Help me rest fully in Tetelestai, believing Your sacrifice is enough and trusting Your finished work to cover my guilt and shame, and that by Your stripes I am healed! Please empower me by Your SPIRIT to live daily in the freedom, righteousness and healing You've secured, reflecting Your glory in my life. In Your powerful Name, I pray, Amen.