Commentary on John 6:39
Bible Verse: "And this is the will of him that sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day." (John 6:39, KJV)
Introduction
The verse in John 6:39 underscores the steadfast commitment of Jesus Christ to safeguard and resurrect those whom the Father has entrusted to Him. This poignant declaration encapsulates profound theological themes, including divine sovereignty, the assurance of salvation, and the eschatological hope inherent in Christian faith.
The Divine Will
Matthew Henry observes: The phrase "this is the will of him that sent me" emphasizes Jesus’ obedience to the Father's plan. This reflects the harmony within the Trinity, where the roles of the Father and the Son are distinct yet unified in purpose. The will of God is not arbitrary but deeply rooted in the nature of divine love and justice.
Albert Barnes adds: The will of the Father demonstrates God’s desire for the redemption and preservation of believers. God’s desire extends beyond mere existence; it embodies a plan that leads to eternal life. Jesus’ mission showcases a proactive pursuit of those chosen for salvation.
Assurance of Preservation
The promise that "I should lose nothing" is a powerful assurance to believers. Adam Clarke elaborates: This statement offers a deep comfort, emphasizing security in salvation. It suggests that no true believer can be lost, reinforcing the idea of eternal security in Christ. The phrase indicates Christ's responsibility to protect and maintain the faith of those who have come to Him.
1. The Nature of Christ’s Keeping
- Divine Security: Christ, as the Good Shepherd, demonstrates His care and vigilance over His flock. Just as a shepherd would leave the ninety-nine to seek the one lost sheep, so too does Christ prioritize the salvation of every believer.
- Faithfulness of God: The assurance found in this verse highlights the reliability of God’s promises. It affirms that our salvation does not hinge upon our merit but on His faithfulness.
The Eschatological Hope
The latter part of the verse, "but should raise it up again at the last day," invokes a rich eschatological hope. Henry further notes: This phrase points to the resurrection and ultimate restoration of all believers at the end of time. This expectation is central to Christian doctrine and provides a framework for understanding suffering and perseverance in the Christian life.
2. The Timing of Resurrection
- Last Day: The reference to “the last day” reflects a future culmination when Christ will bring to fruition all that He has promised. It is both a comfort for those grieving loss and a motivation for holy living as believers anticipate this ultimate event.
- Assurance of Resurrection: Jesus promises not only preservation but also resurrection. This speaks to the transformative power of Christ, whereby death is defeated and believers are granted eternal life, fulfilling the full scope of salvation.
Theological Implications
The theological themes embedded in this verse extend to the doctrines of grace and sovereignty. Albert Barnes emphasizes: Understanding this verse is vital for appreciating the nature of God's grace. It speaks to God's initiating action in salvation—He chooses and gives to the Son those who will believe.
3. The Nature of Grace
- Unconditional Election: This verse supports the doctrine of election, where God sovereignly chooses individuals for salvation. It invites deeper contemplation on God’s grace and mercy in selecting a people for Himself.
- Perseverance of the Saints: John 6:39 contributes to the understanding that genuine believers will persevere until the end. Christ’s protection ensures that what God begins in the lives of His people, He will complete.
Practical Applications
For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, John 6:39 offers profound insights that can influence preaching, teaching, and personal study. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the security believers have in Christ amidst uncertainties and challenges.
4. Encouragement in Ministry
- Assurance to Believers: Ministers can provide assurance to their congregants regarding the unshakeable nature of salvation. Knowing that Christ will lose none of His sheep encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
- Evangelism with Hope: This verse calls for an evangelistic spirit rooted in the hope that Christ can and will save those He has chosen. It fuels the passion for outreach with the knowledge that God is in control of the salvation process.
Conclusion
John 6:39 offers a rich tapestry of theological insight that speaks to the heart of what it means to be a believer in Christ. The will of the Father, the assurance of preservation, and the eschatological hope coalesce to provide a source of strength and encouragement for all who follow Him. Reflecting deeply on this verse encourages a robust faith that is rooted in God's steadfast love and the unbreakable promises found in Christ.
