Prepare the Way: A 21-Day Reading Plan Through John by Justeina BrownleeSample

Day 19: It Is Finished

Read John 19

As Jesus hung on the Cross, enduring Unimaginable Pain, He uttered the words, “It is finished.” These three words were not just about His Life ending—they were a declaration that the Work of Salvation was complete. Jesus had paid the Full Price for our sins, setting us Free from the weight of guilt and shame.

The phrase “It is finished” comes from the Greek word “tetelestai,” meaning “paid in full.” In ancient times, this word was often written on receipts to show that a debt was completely paid off. Jesus’ Death was the Ultimate Payment for the debt of sin that every one of us owed. His Sacrifice wiped our slate clean.

No amount of good deeds or effort could ever pay the price for our sin, but Jesus took the weight of it all upon Himself. Every mistake, every failure—He bore it all on the Cross. When He said, “It is finished,” He meant that there was nothing more left to be done. We no longer have to live under the burden of guilt or shame.

But living in the Freedom of “It is finished” means more than just accepting Forgiveness—it’s about walking in the Victory of His Sacrifice. We are Free to let go of the lies that tell us we aren’t good enough or that we need to earn God’s Love. Jesus’ Declaration gives us the confidence to live boldly, knowing we are Fully Forgiven and Fully Loved.

Reflection Questions:

1. Are there areas in your life where you’re still carrying guilt or shame, even though Jesus has already paid your debt? How can you let those go?
2. How can you embrace the Victory of “It is finished” in your daily life, trusting that you are Free and Loved by God?