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).

A victory cry pierced the darkest moment in human history.

Just three words uttered from a Roman cross – It is finished!

Three words that changed everything.

What the powers and authorities of the day thought had defeated the movement of Christ Jesus was instead the beginning of the New Covenant and new life to all who would believe.

Sin—your sin—had been dealt with once and for all and sent away forever.

The powers and authorities that once controlled you had been disarmed and totally defeated by Jesus.

The curtain guarding the Holy of Holies was torn from top to bottom opening the way into God’s presence for everyone who believes.

Here is what “it is finished” means to you today.

You stand as a forgiven person, free from the control of sin and death.

You are fully alive and living in the love of God.

And it’s all yours because of Christ’s victory at the cross.

Today, let “it is finished” be your victory cry.

If you are gripped with fear and doubt, and living under the weight of guilt and shame, it’s time to thank God that Jesus finished the work on your behalf.

As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, Jesus died for your sins according to the Scriptures. It is time to say thank you that his sacrifice took away your sin once and for all. It is time for you to rest in Christ and to say “it is finished” in your life.

Three Words That Changed Everything Bob Christopher, Basic Gospel