Famous Last Words, "It is Finished!"

Do you know that Jesus said some pretty amazing things from the cross of Calvary?  For example, in Luke 23:34, He said, “Father, forgiven them, for they no not what they are doing.”  Now what’s amazing is that He said this while they were crucifying Him, pounding nails in His hands and feet, and casting lots to divide up His garments.

He also responded favorably to the criminal who was crucified next to Him.  While one thief rejected Jesus, the other pleaded, “Remember me when you come in Your kingdom!”  And what did Jesus say to this humble and repentant man?  Luke 23:43, “Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in paradise.”  Do you see?  Only Jesus can forgive a man who lived a life of lawlessness and promise Him the hope of heaven!

But the most profound thing that Jesus said from the cross is recorded in John 19:30.  After being forsaken by the Father and paying the full penalty for the sins of all those who believe in Him, Jesus declared, “It is finished!”  Then He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.  And how did the centurion, the Roman soldier who oversaw the entire crucifixion, respond?  He said, “Surely this man was the Son of God.”  I’m wondering if that’s your response to Jesus?

Something to think about from the Proclamation point of view.