It Is Finished… Or Is It Just Beginning?

Main Scripture: John 19

In this sermon, we explore the profound declaration of Jesus on the cross: “It is finished.” This phrase, found in John 19, signifies both completion and the beginning of something new. Pastor David Filener delves into the dual meanings of “It is finished”—as both a conclusion and a commencement.

The Dual Meaning of “It Is Finished”

• Completion: Jesus’ declaration on the cross signifies the completion of His earthly mission. The fulfillment of prophecy and the atonement for sin were achieved.
• Beginning: This phrase also marks the beginning of a new covenant and relationship with God, made possible through Jesus’ resurrection.

The Power of the Resurrection

The resurrection is not merely an event but a pivotal moment that transformed the disciples’ lives and ours. It represents our salvation, redemption, and the promise of eternal life. Pastor David emphasizes that Easter is a celebration of Jesus’ unique power to save, heal, and restore.

Beyond Events: A Continuous Relationship

Pastor David challenges us to move beyond event-focused faith, such as Easter and Christmas, and to develop a continuous, ongoing relationship with Jesus. He highlights the tendency to focus on significant events rather than nurturing a daily walk with Christ.

The Tunnel Metaphor

Using the metaphor of the Eisenhower Tunnel, Pastor David illustrates how Jesus’ death and resurrection opened a new way to the Father, akin to a tunnel through a mountain. This path is open to all, yet requires maintenance—our ongoing faith and relationship with God.

• Access to the Father: Just as the tunnel provides a new route through the mountains, Jesus provides a new way to the Father.
• Ongoing Relationship: Like the tunnel requires maintenance, our relationship with God requires continuous faith and engagement.

Continuing in Faith

Pastor David stresses the importance of continuing to believe beyond the initial moment of salvation. The disciples themselves struggled with belief after the resurrection (Luke 24:11, Mark 16:11, Matthew 28:17, John 20:24-29). We are called to believe and continue to believe, as highlighted throughout the Gospel of John.

Encouragement from Hebrews 10:19-25

• Confidence in Access: We are encouraged to draw near to God with confidence, knowing that Jesus has opened the way.
• Maintaining Faith: The passage urges us to hold unswervingly to our hope and to encourage one another in love and good deeds.

Conclusion

The sermon concludes with a call to see our faith not as a series of events but as a continuous journey with Jesus. We are urged to maintain our relationship with Him, recognizing that “it is finished” is not an end but a beginning. Let us continue to believe and live out our faith daily, embracing the life Jesus offers.

For further reflection, consider reading Colossians 1:19-23 and Hebrews 10:19-25. These passages reinforce the themes of reconciliation and ongoing faith in our walk with Christ.