Book of John - Chapter 19 - Verse 30
Meaning
When Jesus said "It is finished" and bowed his head to give up his spirit, it marked the culmination of his earthly mission and the completion of God's redemptive plan for humanity. This moment signifies the completion of Jesus’ sacrificial work on the cross, where he took upon himself the sins of the world and paid the ultimate price for humanity’s redemption. Through his death, Jesus achieved victory over sin and death, reconciling humanity with God and providing a way for forgiveness and salvation. The phrase "It is finished" also signifies the fulfillment of prophecies and promises throughout the Old Testament, as Jesus fulfilled his purpose of bringing salvation to all who believe in him. It is a declaration of the completion of God’s plan for salvation and the beginning of a new chapter in human history, where believers can find hope, forgiveness, and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
Theological Overview
One significant theological interpretation of the verse 'When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.' is that it signifies the completion of Jesus' earthly mission and the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation. The phrase "It is finished" indicates that Jesus had accomplished all that was required to reconcile humanity with God through his sacrificial death on the cross. The word "finished" in Greek is "tetelestai," which has also been translated as "paid in full," suggesting that Jesus has paid the debt of sin in full for all who believe in him. Additionally, the act of Jesus bowing his head and giving up his spirit signifies his voluntary sacrifice and submission to the will of God. This verse highlights the ultimate victory of Jesus over sin and death, providing hope and assurance to believers of the completeness and sufficiency of Christ's work on the cross.