The Power of Christ’s Completed Work

A reflection on John 19:16-42

In our modern age, it’s hard to imagine that some people in America have never heard of Jesus. Yet for those of us familiar with the story, the crucifixion narrative can sometimes feel like old news. But here’s the truth: this ancient account carries profound relevance for our lives today.

When Victory Looked Like Defeat

The Jewish leaders thought they had orchestrated the perfect plan. By pressuring Pilate to crucify Jesus—the most shameful death imaginable—they believed they would destroy any claims to His messiahship. Nearly 2,000 years later, we see how spectacularly their plan backfired. What appeared to be a humiliating defeat became the foundation for the greatest victory in human history.

As Pilate wrote on the inscription, “Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the Jews,” the chief priests protested. They wanted it to read that He claimed to be king. But Pilate’s response was final: “What I have written, I have written.” Sometimes God uses even unwilling participants to declare His truth.

Prophecy Fulfilled in Real Time

The details of Christ’s crucifixion eerily echo Psalm 22, written 1,000 years before:

• His hands and feet were pierced
• Soldiers gambled for His clothing
• He was surrounded by those who mocked Him
• His strength was dried up, His tongue cleaved to His jaws

John emphasizes these weren’t coincidences—Scripture was being fulfilled before their very eyes. Even the seemingly callous act of soldiers casting lots for Jesus’ seamless tunic accomplished God’s prophetic word.

Love in the Midst of Agony

What strikes me most powerfully is Jesus’ concern for others while enduring unimaginable suffering. As He hung on the cross, bearing the weight of the world’s sin, He:

• Ensured His mother would be cared for, entrusting her to John
• Prayed for His persecutors: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do”
• Maintained complete control, choosing when to release His spirit

This wasn’t just physical agony—Jesus was experiencing something far worse. He who knew no sin became sin for us. The eternal Son experienced separation from the Father as God’s wrath was poured out on Him in our place.

The Most Important Words Ever Spoken

“It is finished.”

In Greek, tetelestai—the same word merchants wrote on bills to indicate “PAID IN FULL.”

These three words should bring immense comfort to every believer:

• You don’t need to earn God’s favor—it’s finished
• You don’t need to wonder if you’ve done enough—it’s finished
• You don’t need to carry the guilt of your sin—it’s finished

Your salvation depends not on what you do, but entirely on what Christ did. The payment for sin is complete, sealed in the blood of the Lamb.

From Shadows to Light

Notice how Christ’s death transformed His followers. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, once secret disciples paralyzed by fear, boldly stepped forward to claim Jesus’ body. They risked their reputations, their positions, and potentially their lives to honor Him.

Their transformation challenges us: The world doesn’t need more secret followers of Jesus. When we truly grasp what Christ accomplished on the cross, how can we remain in the shadows?

Three Takeaways for Today

1. Christ’s example of selfless love challenges us. Even in His darkest hour, Jesus thought of others. When we face our own trials—which pale in comparison—are we focused only on ourselves, or do we follow His example of caring for others?

2. Our works don’t save us, but they should flow from gratitude. Because it’s finished, we don’t obey to earn God’s love—we obey because we’ve already received it. This transforms duty into delight.

3. Bold faith replaces secret discipleship. Like Joseph and Nicodemus, when we truly see what Christ has done, fear dissipates. We’re called to live openly and boldly for the One who gave everything for us.

The Invitation Stands

Perhaps you’re reading this as someone who doesn’t yet know Jesus. Maybe you think God couldn’t use someone with your past, your mistakes, your failures. Listen to those words again: “It is finished.” There’s nothing you need to add to what Christ has already accomplished.

Or maybe you’ve been a “secret follower,” keeping your faith private and safe. Today, let the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice draw you out of the shadows.

The same love that prompted Jesus to ensure His mother’s care while dying on a cross is available to you today. The same power that conquered sin and death can transform your life. The question is: Will you believe that when Jesus said “It is finished,” He meant it—completely, finally, and eternally?

The payment has been made. The victory has been won. It is finished.

Reflection Questions:

• How does knowing “it is finished” change the way you approach God?
• What areas of “secret discipleship” might God be calling you to abandon?
• How can you follow Christ’s example of caring for others even in difficult circumstances?