John 5:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 5:18
18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
Chapter Context
John 5 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, worship, redemption. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-47: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 5:18
18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
Analysis
The Jews' response confirms they understood Jesus' claim: 'Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.' Calling God 'Father' in the intimate sense Jesus used claimed unique relationship. They correctly understood—Jesus asserted equality with God. This wasn't misunderstanding; Jesus' claim was clear and they rejected it as blasphemy.
Historical Context
Jews called God 'Father' collectively (Isaiah 64:8), but Jesus' usage implied unique, intimate sonship. The charge of 'making himself equal with God' is precisely what Jesus claimed. John 5:19-47 is Jesus' defense of this claim, not a retraction. The religious leaders understood correctly and rejected deliberately.
Reflection
- Why was Jesus' claim to unique Sonship with the Father considered blasphemy?
- How does this verse confirm Jesus' self-understanding as divine?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: John 8:54, 10:33, 19:7, Philippians 2:6, Revelation 22:1
- Parallel theme: John 5:23, 8:58, 10:30, 14:23, Zechariah 13:7