What is the meaning of John 5:25? Truly, truly • Jesus doubles the word “truly” to underscore absolute reliability. • Every time He uses this formula (e.g., John 3:3; 13:20), He signals a statement that demands undivided attention because it carries divine authority. I tell you • The Lord speaks personally, not through another voice. His words are self–authenticating (John 7:46). • He is the final revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1-2), so what He says about life and death is definitive. The hour is coming • Points to a definite, God-appointed moment. • Scripture often speaks of God’s “hour” as His sovereign timetable (John 12:23; Acts 17:31). • A future event is in view—a resurrection yet to occur. And has now come • Amazingly, the hour is both future and present. • In Jesus’ earthly ministry the kingdom’s life-giving power already began breaking in (Luke 7:22; John 11:25-26). • The same voice that will raise bodies on the last day is already raising souls now. When the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God • “The dead” refers first to those spiritually dead in sin (Ephesians 2:1-5), though the promise extends to the physically dead as well (John 5:28-29). • His “voice” is creative and commanding, the same voice that calmed storms (Mark 4:39) and called Lazarus from the tomb (John 11:43-44). • Identity matters: only the “Son of God” possesses authority over death (John 5:21; Revelation 1:17-18). And those who hear will live • “Hear” means more than noticing sound; it involves receiving and believing (John 5:24; Romans 10:17). • Life promised here is both: – Spiritual life now—rebirth that restores fellowship with God (John 3:6; 6:63). – Physical resurrection later—immortal bodies at His return (1 Corinthians 15:52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16). • Assurance flows from Christ’s perfect power: hearing His voice guarantees life. Summary Jesus declares with absolute certainty that His own voice possesses the power to conquer death. Even before the final resurrection, that power is already active, granting new spiritual life to all who heed Him and guaranteeing bodily resurrection in the future. His authority, timing, and promise are sure; therefore everyone who truly listens to the Son of God can rest in the confidence that they will live—now and forever. |
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