Commentary on John 5:17
John 5:17 states, "But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work." This verse captures a pivotal moment in the ministry of Jesus, reflecting His relationship with God the Father and His own identity as the Son of God. To understand the depth of this statement, we will explore insights from various public domain commentaries.
Contextual Background
Jesus made this declaration following a notable healing at the Pool of Bethesda, where He restored a man who had been ill for 38 years. The miracle took place on the Sabbath, prompting criticism from the Jewish leaders. In context, His assertion serves to clarify His divine authority and purpose.
The Divine Work
In His answer to the critics, Jesus identifies God as actively engaged in work: "My Father worketh hitherto." This phrase underscores a theological point—God is continuously involved in the affairs of creation and human life, which is essential for both leading and sustaining existence.
Matthew Henry highlights the notion that God's work does not cease on the Sabbath, which serves as a counterpoint to the rigid interpretation of Sabbath laws by the Jews. God's sovereignty and creative power are such that they transcend human limitations and restrictions.
The Nature of Jesus' Work
Jesus further states, "and I work." This affirmatory statement reveals His alignment with the divine mission—carrying out the will of His Father. It illustrates that His miraculous works, including healing, teaching, and the act of salvation, are part of a greater divine purpose.
Albert Barnes expands on this by asserting that Christ's work is to fulfill the law, perform miracles, and ultimately achieve redemption for humanity. Here, Jesus asserts His active role in the continuation of God's work on earth, positioning Himself as integral to salvation history.
Implications for Understanding Christ's Authority
Jesus’ assertion draws a profound connection between His identity and His mission. By linking His work with that of the Father, He claims a unique relationship with God that suggests equality—a controversial assertion for those hearing Him at the time.
Adam Clarke notes that this claim of divine working leads to inevitable friction with the Jewish leadership, revealing the theological tensions surrounding Jesus’ identity. The phrase indicates that as God is eternally active, so is Jesus in His ministry. This interplay serves not only as a defense against accusations of Sabbath-breaking but also as a declaration of His divine role.
Theological Significance
The statement also has broader implications for Christian theology. It establishes a framework for understanding the Trinity, illustrating that while Jesus functions with a distinct mission, He does so in a unified purpose with the Father.
Application for Pastors and Theologians: This passage speaks to the continual work of God in the world today. Pastors are encouraged to view their ministry as a continuation of divine work, akin to Christ's mission of healing, teaching, and transforming lives.
- Understanding Sabbath Rest: This verse redefines the concept of rest in God. Rather than a cessation of work, true rest incorporates active engagement in God's purposes.
- Call to Action: For believers, this is a call to participate in God's ongoing work. Their lives should reflect a continuous striving to carry out divine will in their communities.
- The Pursuit of Holiness: Understanding the sacredness of work can guide believers in their everyday tasks—seeing each act as part of what they offer to God.
Conclusion
John 5:17 stands as a theological cornerstone that accentuates the nature of Jesus’ work and His relationship with the Father. It invites believers to engage actively in God’s mission, assuring them that they are part of a grand narrative where divine activity is essential to the fabric of reality. For scholars, the verse is a source of rich theological reflection concerning the Trinity, Christology, and ecclesiology, benefiting further exploration and application in faith contexts.
