Three words, that is all, but three words that mean everything. How we view the nature of Jesus' work on earth turns on our understanding of these three words. Things can get lost in translation here. For instance, it is finished, is either a cry of finality that either denotes utter futility or absolute victory.
When the Memphis Grizzlies entered this year there was high hopes of a deep run in the playoffs. Steven Adams would be back and Ja would be back after twenty-five games. Then the wheels started to fall off. Adams was announced lost for the season just before the first game and then Ja was lost for the season after playing only 9 games. When Ja was lost for the season there was a cry of finality and futility about this season, “we are finished.” In other words what started with promise and hope ended in a cry of finality—we are done! We can’t fix this.
On the other hand, we see a different use of this small phrase. The Kansas City Chiefs, trying to repeat as Super Bowl champs, wrestled through a frustrating season, only to rise to the occasion and in the final minute of the Super Bowl won. After the game there was a cry of relief and finality by the players and management. It is finished! We did it, we accomplished the task of winning back to back Super Bowls.
What does Jesus mean when he says, It is finished? He is hanging on the cross, abandoned by his friends, convicted by a kangaroo, beaten beyond recognition, helpless, crucified and about to die. Join us Sunday and we will talk about it.