Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 19:30

"When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up his spirit." — John 19:30 (ASV)

The phrase “It is finished” (GK 5464) signifies the completion of Jesus’ work and the establishment of a basis for faith. Nothing further needed to be done. His act was voluntary and confident, for he had discharged perfectly the Father’s purpose and was triumphantly leaving the scene of his human struggle. This expression is almost certainly a shout of victory. John makes it the final report of Jesus to the Father, who would now exalt him to glory. Having said this, Jesus “laid his head to rest and dismissed his spirit” (lit. tr.). He retained consciousness and command of himself till the very end.