“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice.”– John 5:28 (KJV)
“Don’t be surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God’s Son and they will rise again.”– John 5:28 (NLT)
“Don’t act surprised at all this. The time is coming when everyone dead and buried will hear his voice.”– John 5:28 (MSG)
What Does John 5:28 Mean?
In this powerful verse, Jesus is asserting an incredible truth about life after death. He is speaking to those around him, producing both a warning and an assurance. This verse points to a future moment when all those who have passed away will rise again. The context of Jesus’ words is extraordinarily important. At this time, He is revealing His divine authority and identity, emphasizing that He holds the power over life and death.
The phrase “the hour is coming” marks a significant period that will initiate a transformative experience for all humanity. It indicates that there is an appointed time when all those who have died will hear the voice of Jesus, the Son of God. This signifies that death does not have the final say; there is hope beyond the grave. Jesus, the one who is speaking, is not an ordinary man; He is the one who is capable of resurrecting the dead, offering them an invaluable second chance at life. As we reflect on this verse, it becomes clear that not only does it emphasize the certainty of resurrection, but it also serves as a reminder of God’s immense power and love for us.
John 5:28 Explanation and Commentary
Understanding John 5:28 requires more than just a glance at the words. We must consider its implications on our faith and lives. Throughout the Gospel of John, we discover evidence of Jesus’ divinity and authority. In John 5, He speaks to a Jewish audience that deeply values the scriptures and teachings of the Old Testament. By announcing that the dead will hear His voice, He refers to the belief in resurrection that existed within Jewish thought but amplifies its meaning by connecting it with His own authority.
Let’s look at the word “grave.” In the culture of Jesus’ time, the grave symbolized finality; however, Jesus is asserting that the grave is not the end. His voice will command those who sleep in the grave to arise. It’s awe-inspiring to think that His voice, which once calmed storms, will also call forth the dead. This notion should fill us with hope. As we ponder our lost loved ones, we recognize the promise of resurrection that Jesus offers.
While contemplating resurrection, it’s essential to understand that this verse implies two outcomes when the dead rise. Some will be awakened to life eternal, reflecting a communal and joyous reunification with God. Conversely, others will face judgment, as mentioned later in the chapter. This duality reminds us not to take our spiritual journey lightly. The choices we make during our earthly lives determine our ultimate fate when faced with resurrection. It drives home the significance of our decisions and connection to Jesus.
As believers, our hope lies in knowing that Jesus holds the keys to death and the grave. We can confidently cling to the promise of eternal life. Referencing John 3:16, we can appreciate the gift of salvation that Jesus extends to all who believe in Him. He came not to condemn, but to save, and that’s an incredibly comforting thought amidst the uncertainties of life and death.
Context of John 5:28
To better understand this verse, we must look at the context in which it was spoken. Prior to John 5:28, Jesus performed a healing miracle on the Sabbath, which provoked criticism from Jewish leaders. They believed that His actions broke the law, leading to hostility against Him. Jesus used this opportunity to clarify His identity and authority, explaining that He does not work independently of God. In fact, He emphasizes that the Father and He are one.
After healing the man at the pool of Bethesda, the conversation deepens. In John 5:19-30, we find Jesus articulating His relationship with the Father, asserting that He has been given authority to execute judgment. Therefore, the declaration in John 5:28 becomes even more significant. Jesus, as the one who has the power to breathe life back into the dead, seeks to instill belief in His listeners regarding His divine identity.
It’s also critical to recognize that in Jewish thought, the concept of resurrection was not entirely foreign. However, Jesus expands their understanding, linking it with a personal relationship with Him. As we explore this verse’s context, we see the interactions between Jesus and those around Him highlight both confrontation and intimacy, further emphasizing God’s desire for connection with us.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of John 5:28
Breaking down the verse enhances our understanding. The phrase “the hour is coming” conveys the inevitability of the event. It is a future promise that we can trust in. The use of “this” indicates a direct reference to the events that had transpired and the promise of something greater to come. This is a reminder that God has a rightful plan for the world. The assurance that “all that are in the graves shall hear His voice” speaks volumes about Jesus’ authority. His voice is powerful; it resurrects. It calls forth life from what seems like an end.
The term “hear” signifies more than mere auditory perception; it denotes a response. Those who hear His voice will rise and will act upon what they have received. This echoes the idea found in Romans 10:14, highlighting the necessity of hearing the Word before belief can ignite. There is response potential imbued in the act of hearing, suggesting that the call of Christ demands action.
To conclude our breakdown, we can reflect on what it means to respond to Jesus’ call. It beckons us into a life of faith and devotion. The resurrection is not just a concept; it invites us into a transformative relationship, encouraging us to embody hope and purposeful living. Each element unveils Jesus’ intention of benevolence and deep desire for us to experience the fullness of life he offers.
Lessons to Learn From John 5:28
There are vast lessons we can extract from John 5:28 that encourage and inspire us. Primarily, this verse reinforces the assurance of resurrection. Our faith offers us hope beyond what we see. When life feels unbearable, it’s comforting to hold onto the promise that one day, all who have passed will experience renewal in Christ. It reassures us that death does not separate us from our loved ones forever; a reunion awaits.
This offers us motivation to share the Gospel, as we, too, are called to fulfill the mission of conveying the promise of resurrection to others. Jesus wants to relive those moments of grief and despair, bringing hope to those who feel lost or hopeless. Embracing this calling makes us ambassadors of hope.
Another powerful lesson revolves around responsibility. Knowing that we will be held accountable for our choices urges us to live with intentionality. We are stewards of the life we’re given. In light of this truth, we may consider how our actions affect our relationship with Christ and others. Each moment counts as we navigate relationships, make decisions, and serve those around us.
Lastly, on a deeply personal level, John 5:28 inspires us to cultivate a personal connection with Jesus. His voice is not just a distant echo; it gives us direct access to Him. We can foster our faith through prayer, worship, and reading scriptures, drawing nearer to the one who offers us life. Embracing this relationship can radically transform our lives in ways beyond what we can imagine.
Final Thoughts
In summary, John 5:28 invites us to embrace the great promise of resurrection and the power of Jesus’ voice. We are reminded of His authority over both life and death and the intimacy that He desires with each of us. This verse inspires us to reflect on how we respond to His call, live purposefully and share the hope we’ve received. Though we may face challenges and moments of doubt, let us hold fast to the belief that through Christ, we have the assurance of eternal life—the ultimate gift we can ever receive.
As we continue in our pursuit of faith, let us explore more themes within the scripture. Feel free to check out The Year of Jubilee or explore Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer which presents additional insights into the life-changing messages found within the Bible.