Commentary on John 5:46

John 5:46 states: "For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me." This verse reveals the profound connection between the Old Testament writings of Moses and the revelation of Jesus Christ. In this commentary, we will explore insights from various public domain commentators including Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, offering a meaningful reflection suitable for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Understanding the Context

In this passage, Jesus is addressing the Jewish leaders who were skeptical of His authority and ministry. He emphasizes that belief in Moses—a foundational figure in Jewish history—is intrinsically linked to belief in Him. The assertion that Moses wrote about Him establishes the continuity and fulfillment of the law and the prophets in Christ.

Matthew Henry’s Insights

Matthew Henry emphasizes that Jesus points to the writings of Moses as a testimony of His divine mission. He observes that the refusal of the Jews to recognize Jesus is equivalent to rejecting the scriptures of Moses.

• Moses as a Prophet: Henry notes that Moses was one of the greatest prophets who anticipated the coming of the Messiah. He cites Deuteronomy 18:15, where Moses foretells the coming of a prophet like himself, which refers to Jesus.
• Scriptural Testimony: The assertion that Moses wrote of Him highlights the belief that the entire Old Testament bears witness to Christ. Henry argues that understanding this truth is essential for faith.
• The Importance of Faith: Henry concludes that true faith in Moses must lead to faith in Christ, as they are fundamentally connected in God’s redemptive plan.

Albert Barnes’ Perspective

Albert Barnes provides a thorough exegesis of this verse, affirming the significance of scriptural authority in the life of a believer. He explains how Jesus’ assertion stands as a challenge to the Jewish leaders, urging them to reconsider their understanding of scripture.

• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Barnes emphasizes that Moses wrote about the coming of Christ through various types and shadows in the sacrificial system and the tabernacle.
• Rejection of Christ: He highlights the irony of the Jewish leaders’ rejection of Jesus, pointing out that their disbelief is a direct contradiction to their reverence for Moses’ teachings.
• Encouragement for Believers: Barnes encourages believers by affirming that understanding the Old Testament in light of Christ deepens one’s faith and knowledge of God’s revelation.

Adam Clarke’s Analysis

Adam Clarke provides a critical theological analysis of this verse that blends historical context with hermeneutical insight. Clarke situates Jesus’ declaration within the broader discourse of His ministry and identity.

• Historical Context: Clarke notes the historical significance of Moses in Jewish culture. He underscores how Moses not only provided the law but also laid the foundation for messianic expectation.
• Jesus as the Fulfillment: Clarke asserts that Jesus embodies the fulfillment of the law given by Moses. He argues that recognizing this fulfillment is critical for understanding the nature of Jesus’ sacrifice and mission.
• Theological Implications: Clarke concludes that this verse illustrates the essential unity of Scripture. Understanding that Moses wrote of Jesus compels believers to approach the Old Testament with a Christocentric lens.

Theological Themes

This foundational verse encapsulates several key theological themes:

• Continuity of Revelation: The connection between the Old and New Testaments is crucial for understanding divine revelation. Moses’ writings serve as a precursor to the revelation of Christ.
• Faith and Belief: The challenge posed by Jesus invites a deeper exploration of what it means to believe. True faith recognizes the foreshadowing of Christ throughout the Scriptures.
• Scriptural Authority: The authority of the Scriptures is affirmed by Christ’s reference to Moses, encouraging believers to engage with the entirety of the Bible as God’s unified message.

Application for Believers

For pastors, students, and scholars, the implications of John 5:46 are profound:

• Preaching Christ from the Old Testament: This passage encourages the integration of Old Testament scriptures into preaching, showing how they point to Christ.
• Encouraging Biblical Literacy: Believers are called to deepen their understanding of Scriptures, recognizing the rich tapestry of prophecy and promise that culminates in Jesus.
• Living Out Faith: Acknowledging Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law invites believers to live in accordance with His teachings, embodying the principles established in the Old Covenant while embracing the New Covenant realities.

Conclusion

John 5:46 serves as a pivotal verse that not only affirms Christ’s identity but also challenges believers to explore the depths of Scripture in light of His life and work. The insights gleaned from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke enrich our understanding, encouraging a holistic view of Scripture as a unified testimony to Jesus Christ, the Messiah. As we engage with this passage, may we be driven to a deeper faith that recognizes the continuity of God’s revelation from Moses to Christ and live accordingly.