John 5:18

Because of this, the Jews tried all the harder to kill Him. Not only was He breaking the Sabbath, but He was even calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.

Study Bible

This was why
The phrase "This was why" serves as a connective tissue linking the preceding narrative to the current verse. It indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. The Greek word used here, "διὰ τοῦτο" (dia touto), underscores the rationale behind the actions of the Jewish leaders. It is a reminder of the escalating tension between Jesus and the religious authorities, setting the stage for the unfolding drama of His ministry.

the Jews
In the context of the Gospel of John, "the Jews" often refers to the Jewish religious leaders rather than the Jewish people as a whole. This distinction is crucial for understanding the dynamics at play. The religious leaders were the custodians of the Law and traditions, and they perceived Jesus as a threat to their authority and interpretation of the Law. Historically, this reflects the broader conflict between Jesus' revolutionary teachings and the established religious order.

were seeking all the more to kill Him
The phrase "were seeking all the more to kill Him" reveals the intensity of the opposition Jesus faced. The Greek verb "ζητοῦν" (zētoun) implies a continuous and determined effort. This hostility was not a spontaneous reaction but a calculated decision driven by fear and misunderstanding. The leaders saw Jesus as a blasphemer and a disruptor of their religious norms, which, in their view, justified their extreme response.

not only was He breaking the Sabbath
The accusation of "breaking the Sabbath" is central to the conflict. The Greek word "λύει" (lyei) means to loosen or dissolve, suggesting that Jesus was perceived as undermining the Sabbath laws. However, Jesus' actions were not about abolishing the Sabbath but fulfilling its true purpose. He demonstrated that the Sabbath was made for man's benefit, not as a burdensome legalistic requirement. This highlights the tension between legalism and the spirit of the Law.

but He was even calling God His own Father
The phrase "calling God His own Father" is a profound declaration of Jesus' unique relationship with God. The Greek word "ἴδιον" (idion) implies a personal and exclusive claim. This was revolutionary and scandalous to the Jewish leaders, as it suggested an intimacy with God that was unheard of. It challenged their understanding of God as distant and unapproachable, introducing a new paradigm of divine relationship.

making Himself equal with God
The assertion "making Himself equal with God" is the crux of the theological controversy. The Greek word "ἴσον" (ison) denotes equality in nature and essence. This was a direct claim to divinity, which the Jewish leaders considered blasphemous. From a conservative Christian perspective, this verse affirms the doctrine of the Trinity and the deity of Christ. It underscores the belief that Jesus is fully God and fully man, a cornerstone of Christian faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
Central figure in the passage, whose actions and claims provoke a strong reaction from the Jewish leaders.

2. The Jews
Refers to the Jewish leaders and authorities who are opposing Jesus, particularly due to His actions on the Sabbath and His claims about His relationship with God.

3. Sabbath
A day of rest and worship in Jewish tradition, which Jesus is accused of breaking by performing miracles.

4. God the Father
Jesus refers to God as His Father, which is a significant claim of His divine nature and equality with God.

5. Jerusalem
The setting of this event, where Jesus is interacting with the Jewish leaders.

Teaching Points

Understanding Jesus' Divinity
Jesus' claim to be equal with God is central to Christian faith. Recognizing His divinity is crucial for understanding His authority and the significance of His sacrifice.

The Importance of the Sabbath
Jesus' actions on the Sabbath highlight the principle that mercy and compassion fulfill the law. Christians are called to prioritize love and service over legalistic observance.

Responding to Opposition
Jesus faced significant opposition for His claims and actions. Believers can expect similar challenges and should be prepared to stand firm in their faith.

The Father-Son Relationship
Jesus' relationship with the Father is a model for believers. We are invited into a familial relationship with God, calling Him "Abba, Father."

Equality with God
Jesus' equality with God challenges us to consider His authority in our lives. Acknowledging His lordship should lead to obedience and worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' claim of equality with God in John 5:18 challenge or affirm your understanding of His identity?

2. In what ways can we apply Jesus' example of prioritizing compassion over legalism in our own observance of religious practices?

3. How do the reactions of the Jewish leaders to Jesus' claims inform our understanding of the challenges we might face when sharing the gospel?

4. What does it mean for you personally to have a relationship with God as your Father, as modeled by Jesus?

5. How can the understanding of Jesus' divine authority influence your daily decisions and actions as a believer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 10:30-33
Jesus again claims unity with the Father, leading to another attempt by the Jews to stone Him for blasphemy.

Philippians 2:6
Paul speaks of Jesus, who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage.

Hebrews 1:3
Describes Jesus as the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word.

Genesis 1:26
The plural language used in creation ("Let us make man in our image") hints at the complex unity of the Godhead.

Colossians 2:9
Affirms that in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.