“It is Finished”

Deepen your understanding of Good Friday

You may often be encouraged to "go deeper" in your Bible study. But what does that really mean?     Reading, journaling, and doing devotions are all valuable ways to engage with the Bible, but if you are still craving to know more, then Bible Gateway Plus can help.    With Bible Gateway Plus, you'll have the ability to answer your questions about the Bible as you read it. Explore the underlying meanings, historical contexts, and theological nuances from more than over 60 premium resources.     On Good Friday, many of us take time to reflect on Jesus' journey to the cross. We try to imagine the physical pain He endured, the emotional weight of betrayal, and the sense of loss and fear He may have felt.    John 19:30 records Jesus' final words on the cross:    30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, "It is finished." With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. (NIV)  It's right to empathize with His suffering. But what we must not forget is that Jesus knew what was coming—and still, He chose obedience. Despite the agony ahead, He followed through with God's plan.  The Believer's Bible Commentary, available with Bible Gateway Plus, unpacks the deep significance of this verse.   19:30 "It is finished!" The work His Father had given him to do! The pouring out of His soul as an offering for sin! The work of redemption and of atonement! It is true that He had not yet died, but His death, burial, and ascension were as certain as if already accomplished. So the Lord Jesus could announce that the way had been provided whereby sinners could be saved. Thank God today for the finished work of the Lord Jesus on the cross of Calvary! Some Bible scholars tell us that bowing His head may mean that He leaned His head backward. Vine says, "Not the helpless dropping of the head after death, but the deliberate putting of His head into a position of rest."    That  He gave up His spirit emphasizes the fact that His death was voluntary. He determined the time of His death. In full control of His faculties, He  dismissed  His spirit—an act no mere man could accomplish.  Learn More Reflecting on the verse and this commentary, let's refocus on what it means and what our emotions do here. Ask yourself the following questions:  Are there times when emotion can cloud or enrich our understanding of Scripture?  How does Jesus' control, even in his final moments, impact your understanding of His divinity?  How do the words "He gave up His spirit" reflect Jesus' willingness to follow God's plan?  What does this reveal about obedience and trust? And, how do you apply it in your life?  Not only does Bible Gateway Plus help you achieve a better understanding of Jesus, the cornerstone of our faith, your study will help you get through difficult times. It gives you hope when you despair, and courage when you are scared.    Join us as we head into Easter Sunday, focus your heart on Jesus, and dig deeper into His last words.   Learn More Look Inside! Try it for FREE The premium resources included with Bible Gateway Plus help answer the questions you didn't even know you had.    You'll be able to explore what trusted Bible scholars have already discovered and written—giving you deeper insight without having to do all the research yourself. You'll uncover powerful historical context, gain a vivid picture of life in Bible times, and most importantly, grow closer to Jesus.    When you begin to realize that every verse holds more than meets the eye, it's time to dig deeper and explore the full depth of Scripture.  With Bible Gateway Plus, no matter where you are when you read the Bible, ask yourself:  Who is speaking or being spoken to?    What caused the event in the passage?     When did this event happen?     Where did this event happen?  Learn More Thank you for being a valued member of the Bible Gateway community! Have any questions? Please write to us at support@biblegateway.com. *The Bible Gateway Easter Sale is valid through April 28, 2025 when an annual plan is selected. All prices are USD. Additional sales tax may apply. The 14-day free trial is available to new subscribers only.    This email was sent to alitealbum.biblegateway@blogger.com by Bible Gateway, 501 Nelson Place, Nashville, TN 37214, USA. You received this email because you're a member of the Bible Gateway Plus service. If you have questions or comments about this email, please contact us.   Manage all Bible Gateway communication | Opt Out of all Bible Gateway communication   VIEW THIS EMAIL IN YOUR BROWSER  ►