It Is Finished
Brian Long powerfully explains that Jesus' declaration 'It is finished' signifies the victorious completion of His sacrificial work, granting believers full forgiveness, freedom, and direct access to God.
This sermon emphasizes the significance of Jesus' final words 'It is finished' on the cross, highlighting the completion of His sacrificial work for our forgiveness and freedom. It explores the depth of God's love and the power of Christ's victory over sin and death, inviting listeners to embrace forgiveness, freedom, and direct access to God through faith in Jesus.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Meaning of 'It Is Finished'
- Explanation of the Greek word 'telestai' meaning 'It is finished' or 'paid in full'
- Jesus' declaration as a victorious cry, not a cry of defeat
- The completion of Jesus' mission on the cross
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II. The Sacrificial Work of Christ
- Jesus willingly laid down His life for the sheep
- The fulfillment and end of the Old Testament sacrifices
- The payment for the sins of the whole world
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III. The Power and Impact of the Finished Work
- The veil in the temple torn, signifying direct access to God
- The defeat of sin, death, and Satan
- The resurrection power and new life for believers
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IV. Application for Believers Today
- Believers are forgiven and cleansed by Christ's finished work
- No need for any other mediator besides Jesus
- Encouragement to boldly approach God with confidence
Key Quotes
“It is finished was the cry of victory, not from a victim. It was a cry of victory, and I believe it was uttered with a loud voice.” — Brian Long
“For those who have believed, repented and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, written across your life, written on that cross, all the sins that we have committed, stamped. Te, telestai. It is finished. Paid in full.” — Brian Long
“You now have boldness. You now have access, direct access to the presence of the Father. And you can come boldly through the blood of Jesus that makes you clean.” — Brian Long
Application Points
- Trust fully in Jesus' finished work for your forgiveness and salvation.
- Approach God boldly and confidently through Jesus Christ without fear or shame.
- Live daily in the freedom and victory won by Christ over sin and death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'It is finished' mean in the context of Jesus' crucifixion?
'It is finished' signifies that Jesus completed the work of salvation by paying the full price for sin, accomplishing everything necessary for our redemption.
Why is Jesus' death described as a victory rather than a defeat?
Because Jesus willingly laid down His life, conquered sin, death, and Satan, and secured eternal life for believers, His death is a triumphant victory.
How does Jesus' finished work affect believers' access to God?
The tearing of the temple veil symbolizes that believers now have direct and bold access to God through Jesus Christ without any other mediator.
Can believers still struggle with guilt after accepting Christ?
Yes, but the sermon reminds believers that their sins are forgiven and paid in full, encouraging them to live in the freedom of Christ's finished work.
Is there any other mediator between God and man besides Jesus?
No, the Bible teaches that Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and man, and believers can approach God directly through Him.