John 5:25
Verse
Context
The Father and the Son
24Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life.25Truly, truly, I tell you, the hour is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.26For as the Father has life in Himself, so also He has granted the Son to have life in Himself.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The dead shall hear the voice - Three kinds of death are mentioned in the Scriptures: natural, spiritual, and eternal. The first consists in the separation of the body and soul. The second in the separation of God and the soul. The third in the separation of body and soul from God in the other world. Answerable to these three kinds of death, there is a threefold life: Natural life, which consists in the union of the soul and body. Spiritual life, which consists in the union of God and the soul, by faith and love. Eternal life, which consist in the communion of the body and soul with God, by holiness, in the realms of bliss. Of the dead, our Lord says, the hour is coming, and now is, when they shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and live. The hour is coming, when all that sleep in the dust shall awake at the voice of the Son of man, and come to judgment: for he giveth life to the dead, Joh 5:21, Joh 5:28, Joh 5:29. Again, the hour is coming, when some of those who have died a natural death shall hear the voice of the Son of God and live again here. It is likely that our Lord had not as yet raised any from the dead; and he refers to those whom he intended to raise: see on Joh 5:21 (note). Lastly, the hour now is, when many who are dead in trespasses and sins, shall hear the voice (the word) of the Son of God, believe, and receive spiritual life through him.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The hour cometh--in its whole fulness, at Pentecost. and now is--in its beginnings. the dead--the spiritually dead, as is clear from Joh 5:28. Here He rises from the calmer phrase "hearing his word" (Joh 5:24), to the grander expression, "hearing the voice of the Son of God," to signify that as it finds men in a dead condition, so it carries with it a resurrection-power. shall live--in the sense of Joh 5:24.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Verily, verily, I say unto you,.... With the same asseveration as before, and for the further illustration and confirmation of the same thing, occasioned by the last clause of the preceding verse, as well as improving upon the argument in Joh 5:21 for his equality with the Father, which he is still pursuing: the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live; which may be understood either of a corporeal resurrection, and of some particular instances of it, which should shortly be; and of some persons who would be in the state of the dead, and to whom the voice of Christ would be attended with such power as to cause them to hear and live; as did Jairus's daughter upon his saying "Talitha Cumi", damsel arise, and the widow of Naim's son upon his saying, young man arise, and Lazarus, upon his calling to him, Lazarus come forth; and which is a full proof of his being equal to God that quickens the dead: or rather this is to be understood of a spiritual resurrection, and the rather, because this sense best agrees with the foregoing verse; and a corporeal resurrection is expressed in somewhat different words, and seems to be distinguished from this in Joh 5:28. And besides, the hour, or time of the resurrection of the above particular persons, was not strictly come; nor could they, with propriety, be said to be dead; to which may be added, that the phrase, "they that hear shall live", and none but them, best agrees with this sense: so then by the "dead" are meant such who are dead in trespasses and sins; who are separated from God, alienated from the life of God, and in whom the image of God is defaced; who are dead in all the powers and faculties of their souls, to that which is spiritually good; and are without spiritual breath, sense, feeling, and motion. And by "the voice" of Christ is intended his Gospel, which is a voice of love, grace, and mercy, of life and liberty, of peace, pardon, righteousness, and salvation by him; and which being attended with his power, is the means of quickening dead sinners; who may be said to hear it, when it comes not in word only, but in power, and works effectually in them; and is spirit and life, and the power of God unto salvation to them; when they receive it, understand, believe, and obey it: and such persons "shall live"; comfortably, pleasantly, and delightfully, a life of faith on Christ, a life of communion with him, and shall live eternally with him hereafter.
John 5:25
The Father and the Son
24Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life.25Truly, truly, I tell you, the hour is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.26For as the Father has life in Himself, so also He has granted the Son to have life in Himself.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Last Hinderance to Revival
By David Wilkerson3.1K1:01:03NUM 16:14MAT 22:37JHN 5:251CO 10:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the Spirit and not being self-righteous complainers or gossipers. He refers to Jesus' announcement of a new work in the 5th chapter of John, where the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and live. The preacher warns against finding fault or speaking against God's ordained leadership, as God will lift His hand against those who do so. He also mentions the story of the Israelites in Numbers 14, where their complaining and doubt led to their punishment and death in the wilderness.
A Hindrance to God's Mighty Works: Unbelief
By Rolfe Barnard2.8K59:35MAT 6:33MAT 13:1MAT 13:53MRK 6:1LUK 4:16JHN 1:46JHN 5:25In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a soldier who was desperate to see the President in order to be saved from death. A little boy offers to help him and takes him to see President Lincoln. The preacher then transitions to discussing a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus returns to his own country and is met with disbelief and offense from the people who knew him. Jesus explains that a prophet is not honored in his own country, and as a result, he does not perform many miracles there. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not offending the Lord and Savior and encourages listeners to turn to God for salvation.
What Love Is This? - Part 7
By Dave Hunt2.3K09:52JHN 1:12JHN 5:25This sermon delves into the theological debate surrounding Calvinism and the concept of regeneration before belief. It discusses the idea that God must sovereignly regenerate individuals before they can have faith, emphasizing the distinction between spiritual death and physical death. The sermon explores key Bible verses like John 5, John 1:12-13, and the implications of being born again through the word of God.
God's Glory and Our Motives
By Rolfe Barnard1.4K49:58God's GloryJHN 4:34JHN 5:25ROM 8:29ROM 10:17HEB 2:10HEB 9:12HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of having the right motives in our service to God. He refers to a text in the Gospel of John where Jesus speaks about doing the will of God. The preacher emphasizes that our motive should be to bring glory to God and to fulfill His purposes. He also mentions the need for personal holiness and a desire to be like Jesus. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God is at work in the world, saving people by His grace and power.
(The Sermon on the Mount and Prayer - Session 1) - Part 8
By Gerhard Du Toit1.2K04:49PrayerJHN 5:25JHN 6:44JHN 6:53JHN 6:68JHN 16:7In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of Albania, a country that suffered under a brutal communist dictatorship for 51 years and was one of the poorest nations in the world. Missionaries from Switzerland went to Greece and threw gospel tracts sealed in bottles into the Adriatic Sea, which eventually washed up on the beaches of Albania. Through this unique method, around 50 people were converted to Christianity. The speaker also mentions a recent gathering of 450 pastors and missionaries in Albania where the Spirit of God moved powerfully, leading to a time of weeping and prayer.
The Death of a Believer & Unbeliever
By Rolfe Barnard89654:39JHN 5:25REV 22:1REV 22:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of death for believers as being like sleep for the body. He shares a personal experience of preaching at his father's funeral and how it was a blessed time for him. The preacher emphasizes the importance of facing the reality of death and asks the congregation if they would be willing to die in their current state. He then presents five blessed truths that come from the scripture, highlighting the difference between the fate of unbelievers and believers in death.
Utterance
By Rolfe Barnard8861:04:46JHN 5:25ACT 19:8ACT 19:13ACT 19:19ACT 19:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of presenting Christ in the truth as found in the Bible. He warns against accepting a distorted version of Jesus or reducing him to a mere name or story. The preacher then discusses the story of the seven sons of a Jewish chief priest who claimed to perform miracles but were unsuccessful. He urges the congregation to support their pastor and fulfill the purpose of the Church by spreading the word of God and saving sinners. The sermon concludes with a reading from the Book of Acts, highlighting the ministry of the apostle Paul and his efforts to persuade people about the kingdom of God.
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 Message of the Cross
By Rolfe Barnard80656:48MAT 6:33JHN 5:25ROM 10:171TH 2:31TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher addresses the importance of the message of the cross. He emphasizes the need for evidence of being a child of God and the love for the gospel. The preacher highlights the sinfulness of man and the need for a big salvation and great forgiveness. He encourages seeking God through His word and emphasizes that God provided redemption through Christ's sacrifice on the cross for those who have faith in Him.
He Could Do No Mighty Works Because of Unbelief
By Rolfe Barnard77954:40UnbeliefMAT 6:33MAT 13:53MRK 6:1JHN 5:25In this sermon, the preacher begins by referencing the 13th chapter of the Gospel of Matthew. He talks about Jesus teaching in his own country and how the people were astonished by his wisdom and mighty works. The preacher emphasizes the importance of witnessing and preaching the gospel, stating that it is the heart of the truth. He also discusses the concept of true freedom, explaining that it can only be attained through a change of masters, with Jesus being the one who offers true freedom from sin.
Understanding Authority (Part 3)
By Paul Lloyd6081:10:23AuthorityMAT 6:33JHN 5:25ACT 5:29PHP 2:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of understanding authority and dealing with difficulties in a Christ-like way. He emphasizes that we live in a fallen world and face various challenges due to our own fallen nature. The speaker highlights the importance of having good attitudes when making appeals to authority, as a bad attitude can hinder the success of the request. He uses the example of Daniel and his friends who made an appeal to not defile themselves with the king's food, and how their good attitudes led to God's favor and blessings upon them.
Christ Could Not Do Mighty Works
By Rolfe Barnard43757:35ChristMAT 6:33MAT 13:53MAT 13:58MRK 6:1JHN 5:25In this sermon, the preacher begins by mentioning that he will be speaking on two topics: the call to Asia and watching men die. He then refers to a passage in the 13th chapter of Matthew where Jesus teaches in his own country and astonishes the people with his wisdom and miracles. The preacher emphasizes the importance of belief in the living God and how unbelief hinders the mighty working of God. He then highlights four things that only a living God in Christ Jesus can do: give life, provide freedom, offer peace, and bring about true peace amidst troubled times. The preacher supports these points with references to Bible verses, such as John 8:32 and John 14:27.
Message and Content of the Cross
By Rolfe Barnard31454:24CrossMAT 6:33JHN 5:25ROM 10:171CO 1:18EPH 2:81TH 2:13HEB 11:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the message of the cross. He expresses his desire for people to recognize the significance of the gospel, especially for children of God. The preacher highlights the contrast between the glory and majesty of the law given on stone tablets and the surpassing glory of the cross. He emphasizes the power of the message of the cross, which may seem foolish to those on the road to hell but is the power of God for those who are being saved. The preacher encourages the audience to believe and embrace what the Bible says about the cross, as it is the means by which God reconciles the world to Himself.
Angel Workers
By Andrew Bonar0Angelic MinistryService to GodGEN 32:21CH 21:16MAT 28:2LUK 22:43JHN 5:25ACT 8:26ACT 12:51TH 4:16HEB 1:14HEB 11:28Andrew Bonar shares a profound allegory of a gathering of angels who discuss their divine missions and the importance of their service to God and humanity. Each angel recounts their experiences, emphasizing themes of justice, faith, and the significance of even the smallest acts of service. Bonar is reminded to convey to his congregation the power of the blood of Christ, the importance of prayer, and the joy of serving God, culminating in the anticipation of Christ's return. The angels express their admiration for those who proclaim the Gospel and encourage believers to remain steadfast in their work for the Lord. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, urging the church to look forward to the glory of the coming Kingdom.
God the Son: His Resurrection and Ascension
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0DAN 12:2JHN 5:25ACT 24:151CO 15:22PHP 3:111TH 4:161TI 6:162TI 1:10REV 20:4REV 20:11Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the profound topic of resurrection, emphasizing the unique nature of Christ's resurrection as the 'firstfruits' and the order of procession in the resurrection of believers. He highlights the eternal significance of the resurrection, refuting the notion of a 'general resurrection' and explaining the pivotal role of Christ's resurrection in the divine plan. Chafer explores the relationship between Christ's resurrection and His death, the New Creation, and the observance of the first day of the week as a commemoration of the New Creation. He also outlines the seven reasons given in Scripture for Christ's resurrection and the two ascensions of Christ into Heaven, detailing the purposes and ministries associated with each ascension.
Judgment of the Wicked
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0MAT 10:28MAT 25:46LUK 12:5JHN 5:25JHN 6:291CO 15:231TH 4:16REV 20:4REV 20:11Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the Scriptures to explain the clear separation between the saved and the unsaved, emphasizing the future resurrection where all, both good and evil, will be raised from the dead by the command of the Son of God. The first resurrection, which includes the saved of all ages, precedes the final resurrection, where the rest of the dead are judged according to their works. The rejection of Christ is highlighted as the all-inclusive sin, leading to eternal condemnation. The importance of preaching the Gospel to all, even the heathen, is stressed, as Scripture teaches that belief in Christ is essential for salvation.
Epistle 85
By George Fox0DEU 18:15JER 10:14JER 31:34HAB 2:18JHN 5:25ACT 3:22ACT 7:48ACT 7:591CO 7:311PE 1:41JN 2:27George Fox emphasizes the importance of following the light of Christ to find rest and witness the new covenant, where personal teaching from man is not needed. He urges listeners to let the light reveal sin, worldly evils, and unrighteousness, guiding them to stand in the light to see Jesus. Fox warns against vain thoughts and idolatry, encouraging people to listen to the voice of the Son of God for true life. He references Stephen's martyrdom and Moses' prophecy to highlight the significance of hearing and obeying the prophet raised by God.
The Nature and Process of Spiritual Life
By Samuel Davies01KI 17:21PSA 119:25EZK 37:4AMO 5:4HAB 2:4JHN 5:25ROM 8:11GAL 2:20EPH 2:4COL 3:3Samuel Davies preaches about the nature and process of spiritual life, emphasizing the contrast between being dead in transgressions and sins and being made alive with Christ by God's rich mercy and grace. He describes the symptoms of spiritual death and the counterpart of spiritual life, urging the congregation to seek revival and restoration to life. Davies illustrates the gradual process of spiritual renewal, the struggles and victories of living souls, and the necessity of a divine, supernatural principle to infuse spiritual life. He encourages self-reflection, earnest prayer, and a longing for spiritual vitality, highlighting the joy and fulfillment of living a life animated by God's love and grace.
Luke 7:11-17. the Raising of the Widow's Son.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0LUK 7:11JHN 5:25JHN 11:11CO 15:20EPH 2:1Favell Lee Mortimer preaches on the miraculous raising of the dead son of the widow of Nain by Jesus, highlighting the deep sorrow and compassion involved in this event. Jesus, with great tenderness, comforts the grieving mother and commands the young man to arise, showcasing his power over death. This miracle not only brought joy to the mother and son but also served as a confirmation of Jesus' ability to bestow life and his promise of a future resurrection. The resurrection of the widow's son symbolizes the spiritual resurrection from trespasses and sins that Jesus offers to all who believe in him.
Resurrection and Ascension Realities
By Thomas Bradbury0JHN 5:25JHN 14:2ROM 8:172CO 1:5GAL 6:14EPH 1:3PHP 3:20COL 1:24COL 3:1Thomas Bradbury preaches about the importance of seeking heavenly things above earthly desires, emphasizing the need to set our affections on Christ and the spiritual realities found in Him. He contrasts the focus on Christ in the epistle to the Ephesians with the external trappings of Christianity in the epistle to the Colossians, urging believers to seek a continual coming of the Lord Jesus Christ in their lives. Bradbury highlights the believer's union with Christ in death, resurrection, and ascension, encouraging a deep spiritual communion with the risen and reigning Christ, leading to a transformation in the believer's life and desires.
On the Two Great Instruments in the Conversion of Sinners
By Thomas Reade0PSA 19:7MRK 16:15JHN 5:25ROM 1:16ROM 10:17EPH 2:11TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:121PE 1:23Thomas Reade preaches on the two great instruments in the conversion of sinners: the written word of God and the preaching of the Gospel. He emphasizes that all men are dead in trespasses and sins by nature, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, many are quickened to a life of faith and holiness. Reade explains how the Gospel, when preached faithfully, has a profound effect on awakening dead souls to spiritual life and vigor, as seen in the Scriptures and the apostles' experiences.
Invitations of the Gospel
By Gilbert Beebe0MAT 11:28JHN 5:25ACT 2:39ROM 8:29GAL 3:2Gilbert Beebe addresses the debate among brethren regarding whether the invitations of the gospel are for sinners or only for the children of God. He argues that there are no invitations in the law or gospel, as God's commands are authoritative and not optional requests. Beebe emphasizes that those who are called by grace are the chosen people of God, predestined for salvation in Christ, and that the invitations in the Bible are expressions of divine authority, not mere requests. He urges believers to align their interpretations with the plain declarations of Scripture and the Spirit of the Lord.
Alive, Free, and Useful
By Richard E. Bieber0JHN 5:25Richard E. Bieber preaches about the story of Lazarus and John Hegarty, emphasizing the need to be raised to life and set free from grave wrappings by the Spirit of God. Just like Lazarus and John, many people may seem alive on the outside but are spiritually dead and empty inside. The sermon highlights the importance of responding to the life-giving Word of God and being useful for the Kingdom by serving others.
He Shall Stand and Feed His Flock
By Richard E. Bieber0MIC 5:2MAT 18:20JHN 5:25JHN 10:16Richard E. Bieber delves into the relevance of Christmas in our troubled world, emphasizing the hope found in Micah's prophecy of a future ruler bringing peace and God's will on earth. He highlights Jesus' ongoing work of gathering his flock, calling people to hear His voice and feel His power, ultimately preparing for a world at peace under His rule. Bieber urges to focus on the bigger picture beyond current troubles, anticipating the Day when all will join in the New Creation on earth under the one Shepherd.
The Voice of the Son of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual ResurrectionHearing God's VoiceJHN 5:25JHN 6:63JHN 8:43JHN 10:4JHN 11:43T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of hearing the voice of the Son of God, as illustrated through the story of Lazarus. He explains that true spiritual hearing transcends mere physical ability and is a sovereign act of God that brings about a living relationship with Christ. The sermon highlights that only those who are spiritually 'dead' can truly hear this voice, leading to a transformative faith that redefines existence and purpose. Sparks warns against superficial Christianity, urging believers to seek a deeper, experiential knowledge of Christ that is rooted in divine revelation rather than human persuasion. Ultimately, he calls for a recognition of the eternal implications of hearing God's voice, which brings life and hope even in the face of despair.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The dead shall hear the voice - Three kinds of death are mentioned in the Scriptures: natural, spiritual, and eternal. The first consists in the separation of the body and soul. The second in the separation of God and the soul. The third in the separation of body and soul from God in the other world. Answerable to these three kinds of death, there is a threefold life: Natural life, which consists in the union of the soul and body. Spiritual life, which consists in the union of God and the soul, by faith and love. Eternal life, which consist in the communion of the body and soul with God, by holiness, in the realms of bliss. Of the dead, our Lord says, the hour is coming, and now is, when they shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and live. The hour is coming, when all that sleep in the dust shall awake at the voice of the Son of man, and come to judgment: for he giveth life to the dead, Joh 5:21, Joh 5:28, Joh 5:29. Again, the hour is coming, when some of those who have died a natural death shall hear the voice of the Son of God and live again here. It is likely that our Lord had not as yet raised any from the dead; and he refers to those whom he intended to raise: see on Joh 5:21 (note). Lastly, the hour now is, when many who are dead in trespasses and sins, shall hear the voice (the word) of the Son of God, believe, and receive spiritual life through him.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The hour cometh--in its whole fulness, at Pentecost. and now is--in its beginnings. the dead--the spiritually dead, as is clear from Joh 5:28. Here He rises from the calmer phrase "hearing his word" (Joh 5:24), to the grander expression, "hearing the voice of the Son of God," to signify that as it finds men in a dead condition, so it carries with it a resurrection-power. shall live--in the sense of Joh 5:24.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Verily, verily, I say unto you,.... With the same asseveration as before, and for the further illustration and confirmation of the same thing, occasioned by the last clause of the preceding verse, as well as improving upon the argument in Joh 5:21 for his equality with the Father, which he is still pursuing: the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live; which may be understood either of a corporeal resurrection, and of some particular instances of it, which should shortly be; and of some persons who would be in the state of the dead, and to whom the voice of Christ would be attended with such power as to cause them to hear and live; as did Jairus's daughter upon his saying "Talitha Cumi", damsel arise, and the widow of Naim's son upon his saying, young man arise, and Lazarus, upon his calling to him, Lazarus come forth; and which is a full proof of his being equal to God that quickens the dead: or rather this is to be understood of a spiritual resurrection, and the rather, because this sense best agrees with the foregoing verse; and a corporeal resurrection is expressed in somewhat different words, and seems to be distinguished from this in Joh 5:28. And besides, the hour, or time of the resurrection of the above particular persons, was not strictly come; nor could they, with propriety, be said to be dead; to which may be added, that the phrase, "they that hear shall live", and none but them, best agrees with this sense: so then by the "dead" are meant such who are dead in trespasses and sins; who are separated from God, alienated from the life of God, and in whom the image of God is defaced; who are dead in all the powers and faculties of their souls, to that which is spiritually good; and are without spiritual breath, sense, feeling, and motion. And by "the voice" of Christ is intended his Gospel, which is a voice of love, grace, and mercy, of life and liberty, of peace, pardon, righteousness, and salvation by him; and which being attended with his power, is the means of quickening dead sinners; who may be said to hear it, when it comes not in word only, but in power, and works effectually in them; and is spirit and life, and the power of God unto salvation to them; when they receive it, understand, believe, and obey it: and such persons "shall live"; comfortably, pleasantly, and delightfully, a life of faith on Christ, a life of communion with him, and shall live eternally with him hereafter.