Seven is a foundational number in scripture as It derives much of its meaning from being directly tied to creation and symbolises completeness and perfection (both physical and spiritual).
In the gospel of John we find a sevenfold revealing of who Jesus is through his 7 signs or miracles closely linked with his 7 “I am” sayings, the bread of life, the light of the world, the door , the good shepherd, the resurrection and the life, the way the truth and the life and the true vine.
We also find in the gospels Jesus last words from the cross where again the significance of completeness is seen with Christ’s penultimate acclamation, “It is Finished” John R.W. Stott notes the phrase comes from the Greek ["tetelestai"] meaning, "it has been and will for ever remain finished." Jesus did not only finish the work but it never needs repeating or improvement.
But what do these words from the cross mean for us when Jesus declared, “It is finished.” Surely it means that no matter who you are, what you have done, or what you have failed to do, Jesus’ death is enough. Though we can never do enough good to to earn God’s favour, Jesus has done it for us. It is finished.
Paul witness to the Colossians 2-9-10 affirms this when he says, “Yet it is in him that God gives a full and complete expression of himself (within the physical limits that he set himself in Christ). Moreover, your own completeness is only realised in him, who is the authority over all authorities, and the supreme power over all powers.” J B Phillips paraphrase.
The good news is that Jesus is enough. No matter your story, he is enough to make you right with God and to assure your place at his side. Because of Jesus, you can have full life forever with him.
Lord, let the fullness of your finished work be realised in my life in Jesus name! Amen
No comments:
Post a Comment