John 3:14
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As Moses lifted up - He shows the reason why he descended from heaven, that he might be lifted up, i.e. crucified, for the salvation of man. kind, and be, by the appointment of God, as certain a remedy for sinful souls as the brazen serpent elevated on a pole, Num 21:9, was for the bodies of the Israelites, which had been bitten by the fiery serpents in the wilderness. It does not appear to me that the brazen serpent was ever intended to be considered as a type of Christ. It is possible to draw likenesses and resemblances out of any thing; but, in such matters as these, we should take heed that we go no farther than we can say, Thus it is written. Among the Jews, the brazen serpent was considered a type of the resurrection - through it the dying lived; and so, by the voice of God, they that were dead shall be raised to life. As the serpent was raised up, so shall Christ be lifted up: as they who were stung by the fiery serpents were restored by looking up to the brazen serpent, so those who are infected with and dying through sin are healed and saved, by looking up to and believing in Christ crucified. These are all the analogies which we can legitimately trace between the lifting up of the brazen serpent, and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The lifting up of the Son of man may refer to his mediatorial office at the right hand of God. See the note on Num 21:9.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And as Moses, &c.--Here now we have the "heavenly things," as before the "earthly," but under a veil, for the reason mentioned in Joh 3:12. The crucifixion of Messiah is twice after this veiled under the same lively term--"uplifting," Joh 8:28; Joh 12:32-33. Here it is still further veiled--though to us who know what it means, rendered vastly more instructive--by reference to the brazen serpent. The venom of the fiery serpents, shooting through the veins of the rebellious Israelites, was spreading death through the camp--lively emblem of the perishing condition of men by reason of sin. In both cases the remedy was divinely provided. In both the way of cure strikingly resembled that of the disease. Stung by serpents, by a serpent they are healed. By "fiery serpents" bitten--serpents, probably, with skin spotted fiery red [KURTZ]--the instrument of cure is a serpent of brass or copper, having at a distance the same appearance. So in redemption, as by man came death, by Man also comes life--Man, too, "in the likeness of sinful flesh" (Rom 8:3), differing in nothing outward and apparent from those who, pervaded by the poison of the serpent, were ready to perish. But as the uplifted serpent had none of the venom of which the serpent-bitten people were dying, so while the whole human family were perishing of the deadly wound inflicted on it by the old serpent, "the Second Man," who arose over humanity with healing in His wings, was without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing. In both cases the remedy is conspicuously displayed; in the one case on a pole, in the other on the cross, to "draw all men unto Him" (Joh 12:32). In both cases it is by directing the eye to the uplifted Remedy that the cure is effected; in the one case the bodily eye, in the other the gaze of the soul by "believing in Him," as in that glorious ancient proclamation--"Look unto me and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth," &c. (Isa 45:22). Both methods are stumbling to human reason. What, to any thinking Israelite, could seem more unlikely than that a deadly poison should be dried up in his body by simply looking on a reptile of brass? Such a stumbling-block to the Jews and to the Greeks foolishness was faith in the crucified Nazarene as a way of deliverance from eternal perdition. Yet was the warrant in both cases to expect a cure equally rational and well grounded. As the serpent was God's ordinance for the cure of every bitten Israelite, so is Christ for the salvation of every perishing sinner--the one however a purely arbitrary ordinance, the other divinely adapted to man's complicated maladies. In both cases the efficacy is the same. As one simple look at the serpent, however distant and however weak, brought an instantaneous cure, even so, real faith in the Lord Jesus, however tremulous, however distant--be it but real faith--brings certain and instant healing to the perishing soul. In a word, the consequences of disobedience are the same in both. Doubtless many bitten Israelites, galling as their case was, would reason rather than obey, would speculate on the absurdity of expecting the bite of a living serpent to be cured by looking at a piece of dead metal in the shape of one--speculate thus till they died. Alas! is not salvation by a crucified Redeemer subjected to like treatment? Has the offense of the cross" yet ceased? (Compare Kg2 5:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That whosoever believeth in him,.... Whether Jew or Gentile, a greater, or a lesser sinner, and of whatsoever state and condition, age or sex; and though ever so weak a believer, provided his faith, is of the right kind: not an historical or temporary one, a mere assent to the truth of things respecting his person, office, and work; but such a faith, by which a soul sees a glory, fulness, and suitableness in him as a Saviour; goes to him, ventures on him, commits itself to him, lays hold on him, and receives him, leans and relies upon him, and trusts in him, and lives upon him; and which is the faith of God's elect; a gift of his grace, and the operation of his Spirit; and which works by love, and is attended with the fruits of righteousness: now the end of Christ's crucifixion and death is, that such an one should not perish; though he is in a lost and perishing condition in Adam, and by nature, and sees himself to be so, and comes to Christ as such; and though his frames and comforts are perishing, and he sometimes fears he shall be utterly lost; and though he is subject to slips and falls, and great spiritual decays; and shall perish as to the outward man by death; yet he shall never perish eternally, or be punished with everlasting destruction, as the wicked will: but have eternal life; not by his works, but as the gift of God: and which he that truly believes; has already in the covenant of grace, in Christ his head, in faith and hope; and has the earnest and pledge of it, the Spirit of God; and the beginning of it, which is the knowledge of God in Christ; and shall hereafter possess it fully, and in person, to all eternity: even a life of perfect holiness and knowledge; a life of never ending pleasure; a life free from all the sorrows, distresses, and imperfections of this; and which will always continue.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14-15 Jesus was lifted up on the cross so that all people could understand the way of salvation, look to him in faith, and have eternal life.
John 3:14
Jesus and Nicodemus
13No one has ascended into heaven except the One who descended from heaven—the Son of Man.14Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Gods Order in Christ - Part 6
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K51:29Order In ChristISA 14:12JHN 3:14JHN 8:28JHN 12:32REV 7:9REV 14:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the immense power of evil forces in the world and how they laugh at human efforts to undo their work. He highlights the futility of trying to repair the damage caused by sin and the downfall of leaders and nations before this force. However, the speaker also points out that there is one thing that can overcome this power, and that is the cross of the Lord Jesus. He refers to the conflict between heaven and earth that arose with sin and the discordant note that disrupted the harmony. The speaker suggests that this discordant note can be found in the prophecies of Isaiah, specifically in chapter 14. He also mentions the story of Job and how his attempts to justify himself and find fellowship with others failed until the Lord intervened and reminded him of the harmony that existed before sin entered the world.
Do You Have the Real Thing? (Compilation)
By Compilations2.1K34:33CompilationMAT 6:33LUK 13:3JHN 3:14ACT 1:14ROM 6:14GAL 3:13REV 20:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the need to turn away from self-centeredness and please God instead. He urges the audience to run from false gospels that focus on success, prosperity, and self-improvement, as well as churches that glorify men rather than Christ. The preacher also highlights the sacrifice of Jesus, who took on the wrath of God and satisfied justice, allowing sinners to be justified. The sermon encourages listeners to seek a genuine and transformative relationship with God.
Man's Ruin and God's Remedy
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K44:23NUM 21:8MAT 6:33JHN 3:14ROM 5:82CO 5:21EPH 2:11TI 1:15In this sermon, the preacher addresses sinners and emphasizes their desperate state. He describes four alarming truths that sinners must face: their guilt for past sins, their inability to save themselves, their inherent depravity, and their inclination to continue sinning. The preacher warns that without belief in Christ, sinners are in a ruined state, much like the Israelites bitten by fiery serpents in the wilderness. However, he offers hope by proclaiming that Christ, who came down to sinners, is willing to save them if they trust in him.
(John) the Explanation of the Mission of the Master
By Willie Mullan1.2K1:00:11The World NeedISA 42:1JHN 3:14JHN 4:34JHN 4:39In this sermon, the preacher focuses on John chapter 4, specifically verses 31-34. The sermon begins by explaining the mission of Jesus, which is to do the will of God and finish His work. The preacher then emphasizes the urgency of the task at hand, using the metaphor of fields ready for harvest. He urges the disciples to lift up their eyes and see the immensity of the task, not just within their own families and towns, but also in the world. The preacher concludes by highlighting the responsibility of the disciples to not delay in their mission, as the harvest is already ripe.
Justification - Part 2
By Charles Leiter1.2K50:58ISA 52:13JHN 3:14HEB 10:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus and looking to Him for salvation. He uses examples like Peter walking on water and the story of the bronze serpent in the Bible to illustrate the concept of looking and living by faith. The preacher also mentions the significance of number 14 in the little red book, which is not explained further. He then focuses on the message of Romans 4-5, highlighting that God justifies the ungodly through the blood of Jesus, regardless of man's unworthiness. The preacher also discusses the role of repentance and faith in justification, emphasizing that they do not contribute to paying for one's sins but are essential components of salvation. The sermon concludes with a reading from Isaiah 52-53, highlighting the suffering and despised nature of Jesus, who will ultimately bring salvation to many nations.
Guilt
By Wayne Guindon1.1K44:34GuiltMAT 6:33JHN 3:14In this sermon, the speaker begins by reading a passage from John's Gospel, chapter 3, about the Son of man being lifted up for eternal life. He then shares personal anecdotes about growing up in Prince Edward Island and his initial move to British Columbia. He describes his lifestyle of partying and emptiness until he receives a phone call inviting him to a gospel meeting in Ladner. The speaker emphasizes the transformation he experienced when he turned to Christianity and found fulfillment in his faith.
Born Again, the Mystery Revealed by Jesus - Part 2
By Erlo Stegen97535:35JHN 3:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus, who was lifted up like the bronze serpent in the wilderness, for healing and salvation. It discusses the need for spiritual rebirth, highlighting the transformation that occurs when one is born again and the necessity of making Jesus the priority in one's life. The message challenges listeners to examine their hearts and ensure they are truly changed by the power of being born anew in Christ.
Real New Birth
By Dai Patterson95200:00MAT 7:21MAT 18:3MAT 19:25MRK 10:15LUK 1:34JHN 3:3JHN 3:14In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about a friend who faced trouble and difficulty in his church. Despite feeling weighed down and ready to give up, the preacher's friend was encouraged by his three-year-old daughter to keep going. This story serves as a reminder to all believers to persevere in the face of challenges and not be distracted. The preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on the life of God within us to enable us to keep going and trust that God knows what He is doing.
How Revival May Continue
By Roy Hession91343:33RevivalNUM 21:4JHN 3:14ROM 8:1EPH 1:7HEB 9:221PE 5:81JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of revival and how it can continue in our Christian lives. He refers to a story in Numbers chapter 21 where the Lord Jesus himself relates it to his own sacrifice for the world. The speaker emphasizes the importance of looking to Jesus and living in his victory. He also shares a personal story about experiencing jealousy and how he found forgiveness and life by looking to the Crucified One. The sermon emphasizes the finished work of Jesus on the cross and encourages listeners to humble themselves before the Lord.
09-11-80 10a Part I
By Bertha Smith83446:56Christian LifeJHN 3:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses various situations where people become frustrated and how they can overcome it. The sermon emphasizes the importance of spending time with the Lord in order to live a glorious and victorious life. The speaker also highlights the need for proper planning and preparation to avoid frustration. The sermon concludes with a story about a woman who becomes frustrated with her Japanese servant due to a language barrier, highlighting the importance of understanding and patience in communication.
The Appearing of Resurrection and the Giving of Power
By Newman Sze8201:22:11MAT 28:1MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 24:44JHN 20:19JHN 21:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the 40 days that Jesus spent on earth after His resurrection. He explains that during this time, Jesus trained His disciples to shift their focus from external things to internal revelation, from the flesh to the Holy Spirit, and from the law to life. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a turbulent airplane ride to illustrate the need for Christians to rise above fear and rely on the Holy Spirit. He concludes by urging the audience to prioritize their personal encounter with the Lord and the experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
The Must of Christ Likening Himself to a Serpent
By Ian Paisley57245:36NUM 21:4MAT 6:33JHN 3:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the simplicity of the gospel and encourages sinners to look to Jesus Christ for salvation. He uses the analogy of a look that brings back life and stops poison from destroying the body. The preacher urges listeners to ignore critics and blasphemers and focus on the cross, where Jesus bore the sins of the world. He then reads from the Book of Numbers, specifically chapter 21, verses 4-9, which tells the story of the Israelites journeying through the wilderness and becoming discouraged. The sermon concludes by highlighting the simplicity of scripture and the power of the gospel message.
Gospel of John (Study 8 of 24, Chap 3 Cont)
By G.W. North10956:48Christian LifeNUM 21:9MAT 4:12MAT 5:1MAT 6:33JHN 1:29JHN 3:14JHN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being born again and having a personal encounter with God. He highlights that the purpose of Jesus coming to earth was to reveal God and bring salvation to the world. The speaker encourages the audience to read the book of John to understand the true meaning of the Bible and to have a deeper relationship with God. He also mentions the significance of new birth preceding the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5, indicating that the teachings in the Sermon on the Mount are intended for believers.
What Does It Mean to Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?
By Peter Brandon635:57FaithBelief in JesusJHN 3:14Peter Brandon emphasizes the profound meaning of believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, drawing from John 3 and Hebrews 11 to illustrate that true belief is not merely intellectual assent but a deep, personal trust in Jesus as the Savior. He explains that faith is essential in every aspect of life, and highlights the difference between natural faith and the faith required for salvation, which involves total abandonment to Christ. Brandon reassures that God is deeply interested in each individual, and through the incarnation of Jesus, He demonstrated His love and concern for humanity. The preacher encourages listeners to move beyond head knowledge to a heartfelt faith that recognizes Jesus' sacrifice and love, leading to eternal life for those who believe.
How Can a Modern Man or Woman Have Faith
By Peter Brandon544:51Personal Relationship with GodFaithJHN 3:14Peter Brandon addresses the question of how modern individuals can have faith, emphasizing that faith is essential for everyday life and is not diminished by advancements in technology and science. He explains that true faith must be personal and cannot be inherited, and he illustrates this by discussing the nature of faith as a heart matter rather than mere intellectual assent. Brandon reassures listeners that God is deeply interested in each individual, having demonstrated this through the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offers salvation to all who believe. He encourages the congregation to move beyond head knowledge to a heartfelt trust in Christ, which leads to true faith and eternal life.
The Shadow of the Cross
By J.R. Miller0The CrossRedemptionISA 53:5MAT 1:21MAT 16:21MAT 26:12MRK 10:38LUK 22:19JHN 1:29JHN 3:14PHP 2:8HEB 12:2J.R. Miller emphasizes that the Cross was a constant presence in Jesus' life, shaping His purpose from infancy to His final days. Unlike others who aspire for worldly success, Jesus was destined for sacrifice, with the shadow of the Cross looming over Him even in moments of joy. He openly taught about His impending death, illustrating that His mission was to redeem humanity through suffering. Despite the weight of this destiny, Jesus maintained a joyful spirit, understanding the significance of His sacrifice for salvation. Ultimately, His life was a testament to love and redemption, culminating in His willing acceptance of the Cross.
1 John 2:10
By John Gill0Walking in the LightLovePSA 119:165JHN 3:14ROM 13:91CO 13:41JN 2:10John Gill emphasizes the significance of loving one's brother in Christ as a reflection of being in the light of grace. He explains that true love is sincere and serves both temporal and spiritual needs, demonstrating that love is an evidence of one's relationship with God. A person who loves their brother avoids causing offense and strives to live in a way that does not lead others to stumble. This love, rooted in the light, leads to a life free from malice and sin, resulting in peace and joy in the community of believers.
The Cross and the Person of Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0The CrossUnion with GodJER 17:9MAT 27:46JHN 3:14JHN 8:27JHN 11:25ACT 2:24ROM 8:11CO 1:182CO 5:14HEB 10:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the true understanding of Christ's Person is inseparable from the Cross, and vice versa. He explains that the disciples initially struggled to accept a Christ that included the Cross, as it contradicted their expectations. The Cross reveals the essence of Christ, which is union with God, and it is through this union that the lie, enmity, and death resulting from the Fall are annulled. Sparks highlights that true knowledge of Christ comes through experiencing His death and resurrection, leading to a restored relationship with God. Ultimately, the Cross is essential for understanding both the Person of Christ and the nature of our union with God.
Regeneration and the Holy Spirit
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith in ChristRegenerationJHN 3:3JHN 3:14C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of being born again, highlighting that this regeneration is a supernatural act of the Holy Spirit, beyond human effort. He reassures believers that while the new birth is essential for salvation, it is through faith in Jesus that one receives this gift. Spurgeon points out the harmony between the need for divine intervention and the call to believe, asserting that true faith is evidence of the Spirit's work in the heart. He encourages listeners not to let the mysteries of spiritual rebirth deter them from trusting in Christ for salvation. Ultimately, he warns against overthinking and missing the simplicity of faith that leads to eternal life.
The Cross and the Disruptive Power of Sin
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Power of the CrossUnity in the ChurchJHN 3:14JHN 8:28JHN 12:32ACT 13:2ROM 8:21CO 1:23EPH 4:3PHP 2:9COL 1:20REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Cross as a unifying force against the disruptive power of sin, illustrating how sin acts as a spiritual disease that disintegrates both individuals and communities. He highlights that the Cross not only bears our sins but also judges and destroys the effects of sin, calling for a return to Divine order through the Holy Spirit's guidance. The sermon challenges believers to reflect on the Cross's role in their personal lives and local assemblies, urging them to seek the Holy Spirit's control to maintain unity and effectiveness in the Church. Ultimately, the message points to the Cross as the central theme of reconciliation and the foundation for a new creation where Christ is the focal point. Sparks calls for a deep examination of motives and situations in light of the Cross's transformative power.
Regeneration
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual GrowthRegenerationPRO 20:27EZK 36:26JHN 3:6JHN 3:14Watchman Nee discusses the concept of regeneration, explaining that unregenerated man is spiritually dead and separated from God, with his soul and flesh dominating his life. He emphasizes that regeneration, which occurs when one believes in Jesus, allows the Holy Spirit to enter and enliven the spirit, leading to a transformation where the spirit governs the soul and body. Nee outlines the three stages of a believer's life post-regeneration: the flesh, the soul, and the spirit, highlighting that while regeneration is complete, spiritual maturity is a process. He reassures believers that struggles with sin do not negate their regeneration, as they are still growing in their faith. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit's work in regeneration is foundational for a believer's spiritual journey.
Are You Looking?
By J.C. Ryle0Faith in ChristHope in SalvationJHN 3:14HEB 12:2J.C. Ryle emphasizes the importance of 'looking unto Jesus' as a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. He explains that believers should look backward to Jesus on the cross for forgiveness, upward to Jesus at the right hand of God for intercession, and forward to Jesus' second coming for hope. Ryle warns against relying on anything other than Christ for salvation and encourages a steadfast focus on Him throughout life. Ultimately, he asserts that true peace, strength, and hope come from these three perspectives on Jesus.
Look and Live
By C.H. Spurgeon0Faith in ChristHealing from SinNUM 21:8JHN 3:14C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the powerful message of looking to Jesus for healing from the sin that afflicts us, drawing a parallel between the brazen serpent lifted by Moses and Christ on the cross. He assures that just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, anyone who turns their gaze to Jesus will find immediate healing from the venom of sin. Spurgeon encourages those burdened by their transgressions to recognize that there is hope in Christ, who died for real sinners. He affirms that this act of looking is not for the healthy but for those who are spiritually wounded, promising that all who look to Jesus will live in holiness and communion with God. The call to 'look and live' serves as a reminder of the simplicity and power of faith in Christ.
The Savior Lifted Up, and the Look of Faith
By Charles Finney0SalvationFaithJHN 3:14Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of looking to Christ for salvation, drawing parallels between the brazen serpent lifted by Moses and Jesus lifted on the cross. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent in faith, so too can sinners find healing and eternal life by looking to Christ with genuine belief. Finney stresses that this act of faith must be devoid of reliance on personal works or remedies, highlighting that salvation is a divine gift received through simple faith. He warns against the dangers of delay and self-reliance, urging believers to trust fully in Christ as the sole remedy for sin. The sermon calls for a clear understanding of faith's role in salvation and sanctification, encouraging believers to share this transformative experience with others.
Fountains of Living Water
By H.J. Vine0GEN 24:62GEN 26:18JHN 3:14JHN 4:14EPH 6:121JN 2:24REV 21:6H.J. Vine preaches on the concept of 'With Thee is the Fountain of Life,' focusing on the encounter of Jesus with the woman at the well in John 4. He emphasizes how Jesus offers living water that satisfies the soul and becomes a fountain of eternal life within believers. Vine also delves into the significance of Christ's death, not only for forgiveness of sins but also for eternal life, drawing parallels to the lifting up of the serpent in the wilderness. He challenges believers to exhibit spiritual energy and progress in their faith journey, uncovering the wells of living water that have been obstructed by spiritual opposition.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
As Moses lifted up - He shows the reason why he descended from heaven, that he might be lifted up, i.e. crucified, for the salvation of man. kind, and be, by the appointment of God, as certain a remedy for sinful souls as the brazen serpent elevated on a pole, Num 21:9, was for the bodies of the Israelites, which had been bitten by the fiery serpents in the wilderness. It does not appear to me that the brazen serpent was ever intended to be considered as a type of Christ. It is possible to draw likenesses and resemblances out of any thing; but, in such matters as these, we should take heed that we go no farther than we can say, Thus it is written. Among the Jews, the brazen serpent was considered a type of the resurrection - through it the dying lived; and so, by the voice of God, they that were dead shall be raised to life. As the serpent was raised up, so shall Christ be lifted up: as they who were stung by the fiery serpents were restored by looking up to the brazen serpent, so those who are infected with and dying through sin are healed and saved, by looking up to and believing in Christ crucified. These are all the analogies which we can legitimately trace between the lifting up of the brazen serpent, and the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The lifting up of the Son of man may refer to his mediatorial office at the right hand of God. See the note on Num 21:9.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And as Moses, &c.--Here now we have the "heavenly things," as before the "earthly," but under a veil, for the reason mentioned in Joh 3:12. The crucifixion of Messiah is twice after this veiled under the same lively term--"uplifting," Joh 8:28; Joh 12:32-33. Here it is still further veiled--though to us who know what it means, rendered vastly more instructive--by reference to the brazen serpent. The venom of the fiery serpents, shooting through the veins of the rebellious Israelites, was spreading death through the camp--lively emblem of the perishing condition of men by reason of sin. In both cases the remedy was divinely provided. In both the way of cure strikingly resembled that of the disease. Stung by serpents, by a serpent they are healed. By "fiery serpents" bitten--serpents, probably, with skin spotted fiery red [KURTZ]--the instrument of cure is a serpent of brass or copper, having at a distance the same appearance. So in redemption, as by man came death, by Man also comes life--Man, too, "in the likeness of sinful flesh" (Rom 8:3), differing in nothing outward and apparent from those who, pervaded by the poison of the serpent, were ready to perish. But as the uplifted serpent had none of the venom of which the serpent-bitten people were dying, so while the whole human family were perishing of the deadly wound inflicted on it by the old serpent, "the Second Man," who arose over humanity with healing in His wings, was without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing. In both cases the remedy is conspicuously displayed; in the one case on a pole, in the other on the cross, to "draw all men unto Him" (Joh 12:32). In both cases it is by directing the eye to the uplifted Remedy that the cure is effected; in the one case the bodily eye, in the other the gaze of the soul by "believing in Him," as in that glorious ancient proclamation--"Look unto me and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth," &c. (Isa 45:22). Both methods are stumbling to human reason. What, to any thinking Israelite, could seem more unlikely than that a deadly poison should be dried up in his body by simply looking on a reptile of brass? Such a stumbling-block to the Jews and to the Greeks foolishness was faith in the crucified Nazarene as a way of deliverance from eternal perdition. Yet was the warrant in both cases to expect a cure equally rational and well grounded. As the serpent was God's ordinance for the cure of every bitten Israelite, so is Christ for the salvation of every perishing sinner--the one however a purely arbitrary ordinance, the other divinely adapted to man's complicated maladies. In both cases the efficacy is the same. As one simple look at the serpent, however distant and however weak, brought an instantaneous cure, even so, real faith in the Lord Jesus, however tremulous, however distant--be it but real faith--brings certain and instant healing to the perishing soul. In a word, the consequences of disobedience are the same in both. Doubtless many bitten Israelites, galling as their case was, would reason rather than obey, would speculate on the absurdity of expecting the bite of a living serpent to be cured by looking at a piece of dead metal in the shape of one--speculate thus till they died. Alas! is not salvation by a crucified Redeemer subjected to like treatment? Has the offense of the cross" yet ceased? (Compare Kg2 5:12).
John Gill Bible Commentary
That whosoever believeth in him,.... Whether Jew or Gentile, a greater, or a lesser sinner, and of whatsoever state and condition, age or sex; and though ever so weak a believer, provided his faith, is of the right kind: not an historical or temporary one, a mere assent to the truth of things respecting his person, office, and work; but such a faith, by which a soul sees a glory, fulness, and suitableness in him as a Saviour; goes to him, ventures on him, commits itself to him, lays hold on him, and receives him, leans and relies upon him, and trusts in him, and lives upon him; and which is the faith of God's elect; a gift of his grace, and the operation of his Spirit; and which works by love, and is attended with the fruits of righteousness: now the end of Christ's crucifixion and death is, that such an one should not perish; though he is in a lost and perishing condition in Adam, and by nature, and sees himself to be so, and comes to Christ as such; and though his frames and comforts are perishing, and he sometimes fears he shall be utterly lost; and though he is subject to slips and falls, and great spiritual decays; and shall perish as to the outward man by death; yet he shall never perish eternally, or be punished with everlasting destruction, as the wicked will: but have eternal life; not by his works, but as the gift of God: and which he that truly believes; has already in the covenant of grace, in Christ his head, in faith and hope; and has the earnest and pledge of it, the Spirit of God; and the beginning of it, which is the knowledge of God in Christ; and shall hereafter possess it fully, and in person, to all eternity: even a life of perfect holiness and knowledge; a life of never ending pleasure; a life free from all the sorrows, distresses, and imperfections of this; and which will always continue.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14-15 Jesus was lifted up on the cross so that all people could understand the way of salvation, look to him in faith, and have eternal life.