What does Jesus' equality with God mean for our daily faith practice? Setting the Scene in John 5 John 5 opens with Jesus healing a paralyzed man on the Sabbath. The religious leaders are offended, both by the timing and by Jesus’ claim about His identity. Verse 18 summarizes their outrage: “Not only was He breaking the Sabbath, but He was even calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.” What Equality Means: Shared Essence and Authority • Jesus is not merely God-like; He is fully God in essence. • Because He is equal with the Father, His words carry divine authority (John 12:49-50). • The Son does what the Father does—perfect unity of will and work (John 5:19). Related verses • John 1:1 — “In the beginning was the Word… and the Word was God.” • Colossians 1:15-17 — “All things were created through Him and for Him.” Daily Confidence: We Stand on Unshakeable Deity • If Jesus is truly God, every promise He makes is guaranteed. • His presence with us (Matthew 28:20) is the presence of Almighty God, not a mere helper. • We face trials knowing omnipotent hands hold us (John 10:28-29). Obedience Rooted in Divine Command • Listening to Jesus equals listening to God Himself (Luke 6:46-49). • His commands are not suggestions; they carry the weight of heaven’s throne. • Obedience is therefore an act of worship, giving God His rightful place. Worship Centered on the Son • John 5:23 — “All may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father.” • True worship directs praise, prayer, and song to Jesus alongside the Father. • Diminishing the Son diminishes our worship; honoring Him completes it. Dependence on Jesus as Source of Life • John 5:26 — “The Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son also to have life in Himself.” • Daily sustenance—physical, spiritual, emotional—flows from Him. • Abiding (John 15:4-5) becomes essential, not optional. Mission: Reflect His Works • Jesus’ equality with God shapes our calling: “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” (John 20:21) • We represent divine authority when we share the gospel, serve, and love. • Confidence replaces hesitation because heaven backs our mission (Matthew 28:18-20). Hope Anchored in Resurrection Power • John 5:21 — “The Son gives life to whom He wishes.” • Philippians 3:20-21 reminds us He “will transform our lowly bodies.” • Future resurrection and present renewal are secured by His deity. Summary Steps for Today 1. Trust every word Jesus speaks—God Himself has spoken. 2. Obey promptly; divine authority leaves no room for negotiation. 3. Worship the Son with the same reverence you give the Father. 4. Draw daily strength from Him, the very Source of life. 5. Walk into your calling with confidence; the One who sends you is Almighty God. |
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