Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment. John 5:28-29
I continue my study of John looking at John 5 and Jesus' extended response to the Jews persecuting and seeking to kill Him (which started in vv16-18 and continues through v47). Yesterday I focused on vv19-24, and today my focus is vv25-29; here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the passage about God?: Jesus' reference to the dead here seems to refer to all who are spiritually dead in their sins (all of us pre-salvation). Once we hear the gospel, accept it, and confess and believe in Him (v25), we are saved and pass from death to life (vv24-25). God the Father gave the Son Jesus not just life but also authority and providence to execute judgement (vv26-27) over those who do not believe in Him. Jesus shares a glimpse of not just life based on belief in His Word, but also judgement and eternal condemnation for those who do not believe His Word (vv28-29).
- What do we learn from the passage about people?: Some will believe and experience life and some will not believe and experience only death and eternal condemnation.
- Is there anything from the passage God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should not "marvel" at the power of God's voice/His Word but instead believe and have faith. Claim the promise of life now to the full (John 10:10) and for eternity - surrender Your life to Jesus!
My Prayer: Father God, thank You for life now in abundance, and for eternity. I am not deserving of my rebirth nor my salvation. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
