John Calvin Commentary John 5:21

"For as the Father raiseth the dead and giveth them life, even so the Son also giveth life to whom he will." — John 5:21 (ASV)

For as the Father raiseth up the dead. Here he gives a summary view of the nature of the office that had been given to him by the Father. For though he appears to specify one class, yet it is a general doctrine in which he declares himself to be the Author of life. Now life contains within itself not only righteousness but also all the gifts of the Holy Spirit and every part of our salvation. And certainly, this miracle must have been such a remarkable proof of the power of Christ as to yield this common fruit: that is, to open a door to the Gospel.

We should also observe in what manner Christ bestows life upon us, for he found us all dead, and therefore it was necessary to begin with a resurrection. Yet, when he joins the two words, raiseth up and quickeneth, he does not use superfluous language. For it would not have been enough that we were rescued from death if Christ did not fully and perfectly restore life to us.

Again, he does not speak of this life as bestowed indiscriminately on all, for he says that he gives life to whom he will. By this he means that he specially confers this grace on no one except certain people, that is, on the elect.