The Completed Work of Christ refers to the comprehensive and final accomplishments of Jesus Christ through His life, death, resurrection, and ascension. This theological concept underscores the sufficiency and efficacy of Christ's actions in fulfilling God's redemptive plan for humanity. It is central to Christian doctrine, emphasizing that Christ's work is complete and requires no addition from human effort for salvation.

1. Incarnation and Earthly Ministry

The work of Christ began with the Incarnation, where the eternal Son of God took on human flesh (John 1:14). This act was essential for Him to fully identify with humanity and to fulfill the Law perfectly. Jesus' earthly ministry involved teaching, healing, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God, demonstrating His authority and compassion (Matthew 4:23). His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15) was necessary to be the perfect sacrifice for sin.

2. Atoning Death

Central to the Completed Work of Christ is His atoning death on the cross. Jesus' crucifixion is the pivotal event where He bore the sins of humanity, satisfying the righteous wrath of God. As stated in 1 Peter 2:24 , "He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness." This sacrificial act fulfilled the Old Testament sacrificial system and established a new covenant between God and humanity (Hebrews 9:15).

3. Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is a cornerstone of the Completed Work of Christ, signifying His victory over sin and death. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:17 , "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins." The resurrection validates Jesus' divine nature and His power to grant eternal life to believers (John 11:25-26). It assures Christians of their future resurrection and eternal life with God.

4. Ascension and Exaltation

Following His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, where He is seated at the right hand of the Father (Acts 1:9-11; Ephesians 1:20). This exaltation signifies His authority and ongoing intercessory role for believers (Hebrews 7:25). The ascension marks the completion of His earthly mission and the beginning of His heavenly ministry, where He prepares a place for His followers (John 14:2-3).

5. The Sending of the Holy Spirit

The Completed Work of Christ also includes the sending of the Holy Spirit, as promised by Jesus (John 14:16-17). The Holy Spirit empowers believers, convicts the world of sin, and guides the Church in truth (John 16:7-13). This outpouring at Pentecost (Acts 2) signifies the inauguration of the new covenant community and the global mission of the Church.

6. Fulfillment of Prophecy and Law

Christ's work fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies and the requirements of the Law. He declared in Matthew 5:17 , "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." His life and mission completed the messianic expectations and established Him as the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King.

7. Implications for Believers

The Completed Work of Christ assures believers of their salvation, as it is based solely on His merit and not on human works (Ephesians 2:8-9). It provides the foundation for Christian living, calling believers to live in the freedom and power of the Spirit (Galatians 5:1). The work of Christ also unites believers with Him in His death and resurrection, enabling them to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4).

In summary, the Completed Work of Christ encompasses His incarnation, atoning death, victorious resurrection, ascension, and the sending of the Holy Spirit. It fulfills the divine plan of redemption, offering salvation and eternal life to all who believe.