The Finished Work

When Jesus said "It is finished," He meant it. Not "It is started." Not "It is almost done." Finished. Complete. Accomplished. Nothing left to do.

What Was Finished?

Everything. Your forgiveness—finished. Your righteousness—finished. Your acceptance before God—finished. Your redemption—finished. Your reconciliation—finished.

"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

The Greek word is tetelestai—a term used in ancient commerce meaning "paid in full." When a debt was settled, the receipt was stamped with this word. Jesus stamped your sin debt: Paid in full.

Stop Adding to the Finished Work

Religion wants to add to what Jesus did. "Yes, Jesus died for you, but you also need to..." No. There is no "but." There is no "also." The work is finished.

Your fasting doesn't finish it. Your tithing doesn't finish it. Your Bible reading doesn't finish it. Jesus finished it. Alone. Completely. Once for all.

"By one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy." — Hebrews 10:14

Rest in the Finished Work

If the work is finished, what's left for you to do? Rest. Believe. Receive. Stop striving. Stop performing. Stop trying to add your two cents to the infinite value of the Cross.

You are not working toward acceptance. You are working from acceptance. You are not earning God's favor. You are enjoying it.

Declare This Over Yourself

It is finished. My forgiveness is complete. My righteousness is secure. My acceptance is settled. I am not trying to finish what Jesus already finished. I rest in His completed work.