“When He had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” – John 19:30 (NIV)
Tetelestai is a Greek word for “it’s finished, it is completed, paid in full.” Jesus paid it all – totally, completely, nothing else to do, permanently. What a significant moment in history – the death of Jesus. It marked the end of His earthly ministry and the completion of His redemption mission.
Jesus was given vinegar on the cross because it was a common drink for Roman soldiers at that time; diluted vinegar could hydrate an entire army. It was often considered a cheap sour wine and was offered to Him as a form of drink to alleviate His thirst during crucifixion. It could also be interpreted as a symbolic act of humiliation, mockery, and suffering.
Jesus refused it the first time because He wanted to bear the full suffering and punishment, but accepted it the second time. This bitter-tasting substance made from plants like wormwood or myrrh could have dulled Jesus’ senses and reduced His pain, but Jesus wanted to moisten His lips and throat so He could speak His final words. He said:
- To God – “…Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do…” – Luke 23:34 (KJV)
- To the thief – “…Truly I tell you, today you will be with Me in paradise.” – Luke 23:43 (NIV)
- To Mary, His mother – “…Woman behold your son!” – John 19:26 (NKJV)
- To the soldiers- “I thirst” (John 19:28)
- To God – “…My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34 – NKJV)
- To God – “…It is finished…” (John 19:30)
- To God – “…Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit…” (Luke 23:46 – NIV)
His death also fulfilled a prophecy (Psalm 69:21) where the suffering servant is given “gall” to drink.
Jesus’ death as a sacrifice paid for all of the sins of all people, past, present, and future. It was the only way to pay for our sins without our eternal death. His completed mission marked the completion of His journey to atone for all humanity’s sins. It was also the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophecies and the sacrificial traditions. We now have eternal life!
Read: Psalm 22:1-2; Galatians 3:13
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 8:22-31; Luke 9:10-27; Numbers 33; Numbers 34
