The concept of "Proclaim the Finished Work" is deeply rooted in Christian theology, emphasizing the completed and sufficient work of Jesus Christ on the cross for the redemption of humanity. This doctrine is central to the understanding of salvation, grace, and the believer's relationship with God.

Biblical Foundation

The phrase "It is finished," spoken by Jesus on the cross, is recorded in John 19:30 : "When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished.' And bowing His head, He yielded up His spirit." This declaration signifies the completion of His sacrificial mission, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and the requirements of the Law. The finished work of Christ is the cornerstone of the New Covenant, as it provides the basis for the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God.

Theological Significance

The finished work of Christ is pivotal in understanding the doctrine of justification by faith. Romans 3:24-25 states, "and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand." This passage highlights that salvation is a gift of grace, not earned by human effort but received through faith in the completed work of Christ.

Proclamation and Evangelism

Proclaiming the finished work of Christ is a central task of the Church. The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20 , instructs believers to "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This mission involves declaring the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice and inviting others to enter into a restored relationship with God through faith.

Assurance and Rest

The finished work of Christ provides believers with assurance of salvation and rest from striving for righteousness through their own efforts. Hebrews 4:9-10 states, "So there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For whoever enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His." This rest is a spiritual reality that believers experience as they trust in the completeness of Christ's atoning work.

Implications for Christian Living

Understanding and proclaiming the finished work of Christ has profound implications for Christian living. It calls believers to live in the freedom and joy of their salvation, as expressed in Galatians 5:1 : "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery." This freedom empowers Christians to serve God and others out of love and gratitude, rather than obligation or fear.

Conclusion

The proclamation of the finished work of Christ is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, underscoring the completeness of Jesus' sacrifice and its implications for salvation, assurance, and daily living. Through this proclamation, believers are called to share the message of grace and redemption with the world, inviting all to experience the transformative power of the Gospel.