SUMMARY
Jesus dies confidently asserting that his ministry is completed.
ANALYSIS
Jesus’ final words from the cross are, “It is finished.” The Greek word used in the Gospel is tetelestai, which might better be translated, “It is accomplished,” or, “It is completed.” The Greek word is related to the word telos, which refers to a goal. On the cross Jesus can say that his ministry is completed, because there he reveals the fullness of the love of God. By giving himself completely for others, he brings his work on earth to its completion. The cross is not a low point but a high point in John’s Gospel, since the cross is where Jesus reveals the love of God by laying down his life.
