The final statement from the cross was only recorded by John. John was there. He heard every word from the lips of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross. John 19:30 tells us: "Jesus said, 'It is finished.' With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit."
It is finished. Tetelestai. Tetelestai is a Greek perfect passive verb, meaning that the purpose has been fulfilled. It means that the goal has been realized—it is finished.
The effect and blessing of the finished work of Christ dying on the cross are for eternity.
A perfect passive verb also indicates that the result of that fulfilled purpose continues forever. It means that the impact of the benefits that were accomplished on the cross will go on to the return of Christ and, from thence, multiply beyond our wildest dreams. The effect and blessing of the finished work of Christ dying on the cross are for eternity.
When Jesus said, "It is finished," it meant that in every generation and from every nation, anyone who comes to Him and bows at His feet, receiving and accepting the blessings that come from that finished work of Christ, will be eternally saved.
His sacrifice was once and for all, but its effect, its blessing, continues on and on and on to everyone who comes and bends their knees before Him, acknowledging Him as their Savior and Lord. The action is finished, but the results continue. The work is done, but the effect continues.
What effect does the finished work of Christ have on you today?
Prayer: God, thank You for the perfect and complete salvation You secured for me at the cross. Help me to never take my salvation for granted. Thank you that I am eternally saved. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory" (Ephesians 1:13-14).
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