What is the meaning of John 5:21? For just as the Father Jesus begins by pointing to the work of His Father, creating an immediate link between divine activity and His own ministry (John 5:19). • The phrase “just as” signals perfect harmony—what the Father does, the Son does likewise (John 1:1-3). • This reminder of the Father’s role recalls Old Testament moments where God alone is credited with power over life and death (Deuteronomy 32:39; 1 Samuel 2:6). • By starting here, Jesus anchors His claim in the well-known character of God the Father, setting the stage for a deeper revelation of His own authority. Raises the dead “Raises the dead” tells us the Father’s power is not limited by the grave. • Elijah and Elisha were instruments when God raised the dead (1 Kings 17:21-22; 2 Kings 4:32-35), underscoring that only God can reverse death. • This divine ability foreshadows the greater resurrection hope described later in Scripture (Daniel 12:2; Acts 26:8). • By acknowledging that the Father raises the dead, Jesus affirms a truth His listeners already accepted, preparing them for the next, more startling claim. And gives them life Resurrection is not merely resuscitation; it is the bestowal of life itself. • “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men” (John 1:4). Life originates in God and is His to grant (Psalm 36:9). • This phrase underscores both physical resurrection and spiritual renewal (Ezekiel 37:5-6). • When God gives life, it is complete, sustained, and purposeful (Psalm 16:11). So also the Son Here Jesus places Himself alongside the Father in function and authority. • The parallel “so also” means the Son acts with the same power and intent (John 10:30). • By claiming equal ability, He asserts His divine identity—something that prompted the leaders’ charge of blasphemy (John 5:18). • Colossians 1:15-17 reinforces that all things hold together in Him, confirming that His role is not derivative but co-equal. Gives life Jesus is not limited to future resurrection; He imparts life here and now. • “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies” (John 11:25-26). • He gives spiritual life to those dead in trespasses (Ephesians 2:4-5) and will ultimately raise believers bodily (John 6:40). • This gift is transformative, moving people from death to life the moment they trust Him (John 5:24). To whom He wishes The closing words highlight sovereign freedom in dispensing life. • Authority to give life rests entirely with Jesus (John 17:2). • His choice is never arbitrary; it flows from divine grace and perfect justice (Romans 9:15-16). • Those who receive life are those He calls and who respond in faith (2 Timothy 1:9; John 6:37). summary John 5:21 reveals a breathtaking truth: the Son shares the Father’s exclusive power over life and death. The Father raises the dead and grants life; the Son does the very same, exercising sovereign authority to give life to whomever He wills. In this single verse, Jesus unmistakably declares His divinity, His role as life-giver, and His sovereign grace toward those who believe. |
    |