The concept of Christ's completed work is central to Christian theology, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This doctrine underscores the sufficiency and finality of Christ's atoning sacrifice, which reconciles humanity to God and provides the basis for salvation.

Atonement and Sacrifice

The completed work of Christ is rooted in the atonement, where Jesus serves as the ultimate sacrificial Lamb. The Old Testament sacrificial system, as outlined in Leviticus, foreshadows this ultimate sacrifice. Hebrews 10:10 states, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." This verse highlights the once-for-all nature of Christ's sacrifice, contrasting it with the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant.

Fulfillment of the Law

Christ's work also involves the fulfillment of the Mosaic Law. In Matthew 5:17 , Jesus declares, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." Through His perfect obedience and sinless life, Christ fulfills the righteous requirements of the Law, which humanity could not achieve on its own.

Redemption and Reconciliation

The completed work of Christ brings redemption and reconciliation between God and humanity. Ephesians 1:7 affirms, "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace." This redemption is a release from the bondage of sin and a restoration to a right relationship with God. Colossians 1:20 further explains, "and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through the blood of His cross."

Victory Over Sin and Death

Christ's resurrection is a pivotal aspect of His completed work, signifying victory over sin and death. 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 proclaims, "When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come to pass: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory.' 'Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." This victory assures believers of eternal life and the hope of resurrection.

Justification and Sanctification

The completed work of Christ provides the foundation for justification and sanctification. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Justification is the legal declaration of righteousness, while sanctification is the ongoing process of being made holy. Both are made possible through Christ's work and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Intercession and Advocacy

Even after His ascension, Christ's work continues through His intercession and advocacy for believers. Hebrews 7:25 assures, "Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them." As our High Priest, Christ intercedes on our behalf, ensuring our access to the Father and sustaining our faith.

The New Covenant

Christ's completed work inaugurates the New Covenant, characterized by a direct relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. Jeremiah 31:31-34 prophesies this covenant, which is fulfilled in Christ. Hebrews 9:15 explains, "Therefore Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, now that He has died to redeem them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant."

Conclusion

The completed work of Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith, encapsulating His atoning sacrifice, fulfillment of the Law, victory over sin and death, and the establishment of the New Covenant. Through His work, believers are justified, sanctified, and assured of eternal life, living in the hope and power of His resurrection.