Commentary on John 6:40

In John 6:40, Jesus proclaims, "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day." This verse encapsulates the core tenets of Christian faith, emphasizing the divine intention behind the coming of Christ and the promise of eternal life for believers.

Understanding the Divine Will

This verse begins with a declaration of the Father's will, which is pivotal for understanding the nature of salvation. According to Matthew Henry, the will of the Father is reflective of His desire for humanity's redemption. The phrase "this is the will of my Father" indicates a definitive purpose, showing that God's plan for salvation through the Son is both intentional and gracious.

Albert Barnes elaborates on this idea by highlighting that God's will is paramount, and it assures believers of the certainty of their salvation. The emphasis on the Father’s will positions God as the initiator of the plan of salvation, making it clear that salvation is not an afterthought but a central theme of divine purpose.

The Role of Faith

Central to this verse is the act of looking upon the Son and believing in Him. Adam Clarke notes that the term "looks on the Son" signifies more than a mere glance; it requires a focused attention and acknowledgment of Christ’s divine nature and mission. Belief is presented as a personal, active engagement that leads to salvation.

• Faith as Active and Reflective: Clarke emphasizes that this faith is not passive. It involves a spiritual gaze, recognizing Jesus as the one through whom salvation is obtained.
• Faith and Eternal Life: The promise of eternal life is closely linked to this act of belief, suggesting that faith is the key that unlocks the door to eternal communion with God.

Eternal Life as a Promise

The assurance of eternal life for those who believe is a profound aspect of this verse. Matthew Henry underlines that eternal life is not only a future promise but also a present reality for believers. They experience a spiritual life that is transformed in the here and now, reflecting the life of the eternal God within them.

Furthermore, Albert Barnes comments on the nature of eternal life by describing it as a quality of life that begins at the moment of belief. It is characterized by an intimate relationship with the Father and the Son, an active experience of divine grace that transcends physical existence.

Resurrection as a Final Hope

The closing statement of this verse, "and I will raise him up on the last day," conveys a beautiful eschatological promise. Adam Clarke points out that this promise encompasses the physical resurrection of believers, which is a central theme in Christian eschatology.

• The Assurance of Resurrection: Clarke emphasizes that Jesus not only promises eternal life but guarantees physical resurrection. This dual aspect of salvation—spiritual and physical—is vital for comprehensive Christian hope.
• Last Day Expectation: The phrase "the last day" signifies a definitive time in God’s redemptive history, reinforcing the hope for believers that death is not an end but a transition to a more glorious existence.

Conclusion

John 6:40 serves as a powerful reminder of the heart of the Gospel. The will of the Father, the call to belief, the assurance of eternal life, and the promise of resurrection present a comprehensive view of salvation. For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, this verse encapsulates vital doctrines of faith, hope, and divine promise.

Each element within this verse—the Father’s will, the necessity of faith, the gift of eternal life, and the assurance of resurrection—provides deep theological insights that can be applied to pastoral ministry, teaching, and personal edification. It challenges believers to actively engage in their faith and assures them of the profound rewards found in Christ.