What does "His command leads to eternal life" reveal about God's authority and promise? Setting of the Statement John 12:49-50 sets the scene. Jesus says: “For I have not spoken on My own; but the Father who sent Me has commanded Me what to say and how to say it. And I know that His command is eternal life”. These are Christ’s last public words before the Upper Room discourse, underscoring their weight. What “His Command” Means • Not a suggestion or guideline—“command” (entolē) is an authoritative decree. • Given by the Father, delivered by the Son, impressed on hearers by the Spirit. • Summarized in John’s Gospel as believing in the Son (John 6:29) and walking in His word (John 8:51). God’s Absolute Authority Shines Through • Source of the command: the Father, “who sent Me.” Divine origin guarantees supreme authority (Isaiah 45:22-23). • Jesus’ perfect obedience affirms that no higher authority exists (Philippians 2:8-11). • The command is unchanging; therefore it outlasts all human edicts (Psalm 119:89). God’s Certain Promise Emerges • The command carries its own reward: “eternal life.” Promise and precept are inseparable. • Eternal life is not merely endless existence but knowing God (John 17:3). • Because the promise is tied to God’s word, it is secure (Titus 1:2). How Authority and Promise Interlock 1. God’s authority makes the promise dependable—He cannot lie (Numbers 23:19). 2. The promise validates the authority—only One with all power can bestow eternal life (John 10:28). 3. Obedience becomes joyful, not burdensome, because it leads to life (1 John 5:3). Supporting Scriptures • John 5:24 – “Whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life.” • Romans 6:23 – “The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” • 1 Peter 1:23-25 – The living word that endures forever brings the new birth. Living in the Light of the Command • Embrace the word: prioritize Scripture intake, for life flows through it (Deuteronomy 8:3). • Trust the promise: anchor hope in the finished work of Christ (Hebrews 6:19-20). • Walk obediently: display God’s authority by gladly doing what He says (James 1:22-25). |
    |