Tetelestai

Luke 22:16 For I tell you that I will not eat it again until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.

John 19:30

The Greek verb "τελέω" (teleo) forms "Τετέλεσται" through a combination of a prefix, root, and suffix, giving it the meaning of "It is finished." Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Prefix

The prefix "τε-" (te-) is not a standalone prefix but part of the reduplication seen in Greek perfect tense verbs. The reduplication intensifies the meaning, emphasizing that the action has been fully completed.

Root

The root "τελέω" (teleo) means "to finish," "to complete," or "to accomplish." This root provides the core meaning of the verb.

Suffix

The suffix "-σται" (-stai) indicates the perfect tense in the passive voice. The perfect tense conveys that an action has been completed in the past with results that continue into the present. In this case, it implies that what was finished remains finished.

Combining Form

When combined, "Τετέλεσται" (tetelestai) reflects an action that has been completed with enduring effects. Jesus’ declaration "It is finished" thus indicates the fulfillment of His mission and the completion of His redemptive work on the cross, with ongoing implications for humanity. The Preparation has finished.

Understanding "It is finished" through Key Biblical Texts

Introduction

To fully grasp the meaning of Jesus' declaration "It is finished" (John 19:30), we must consider the context provided in Luke 22:15-16, Philippians 2, and 1 Peter 1. These texts together illuminate the theological depth of this statement.

Luke 22:15-16

Key Themes:

• Passover Fulfillment: Jesus eagerly desired to eat the Passover with His disciples, indicating its deep significance and prophetic fulfillment in the kingdom of God.

• Future Fulfillment: Jesus speaks of not eating it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God, pointing towards an eternal, glorious Passover in heaven.

Philippians 2: Key Themes

1. Humility and Obedience of Christ (Philippians 2:5-8):

   • Incarnation and Humility: Jesus, existing in the form of God, did not cling to His divine privileges but emptied Himself, taking on human nature and the role of a servant.

   • Obedience to Death: His obedience unto death on the cross signifies the completion of His redemptive work.

2. Exaltation of Christ (Philippians 2:9-11):

   • Divine Exaltation: Following His obedience and sacrificial death, God highly exalted Him, bestowing upon Him the name above all names.

   • Universal Acknowledgment: Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, fulfilling God’s redemptive plan.

1 Peter 1: Key Themes

1. Living Hope through Christ’s Resurrection (1 Peter 1:3-5):

   • New Birth: The resurrection of Jesus Christ gives believers a new birth into a living hope.

   • Inheritance: Believers are promised an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading.

2. Suffering and Glory (1 Peter 1:10-12):

   • Prophetic Fulfillment: The prophets spoke of the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories, highlighting the fulfilled prophecies.

3. Salvation of Souls (1 Peter 1:9):

   • Goal of Faith: The ultimate goal of faith is the salvation of souls, emphasizing the end result of Christ’s work.

Conclusion

The declaration "It is finished" encompasses:

• Completion of Earthly Mission: Jesus fulfilled His role as the Passover Lamb, sacrificing Himself for humanity’s sins.

• Preparation for Heavenly Fulfillment: His death and resurrection set the stage for the future, eternal Passover celebration in God's kingdom.

• Call to Action: Believers are encouraged to work out their salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12), focusing on the ultimate goal of their faith – the salvation of their souls (1 Peter 1:9).

By integrating these scriptural insights, we understand that Jesus’ words on the cross signify the completion of His earthly mission and the preparation for the eternal fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan in heaven. This context underscores why "The Preparation Day" was the appointed time for His crucifixion, fulfilling prophetic and theological significance. Furthermore, His crucifixion took place on "One of the Sabbaton," which is a "Moed." This is the reason why the spirit of Babylon seeks to attack the Mount of Moed in Isaiah 14:13.