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1
A Declaration of Deity
Commentators explain that having "life in himself" means possessing an original, underived source of life—a quality unique to God. Unlike humans, whose life is derived from God, Jesus shares this divine attribute with the Father. This is a profound declaration of Jesus's deity, showing He has the inherent power to create and restore life.
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John
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Commentaries
8
Albert Barnes
On John 5:26
18th Century
Theologian
As the Father has life. God is the source of all life. He is therefore called the living God, in opposition to idols which have n…
AT Robertson
On John 5:26
In himself (εν εαυτω). The Living God possesses life wholly in himself and so he has bestowed this power of life to the Son as alr…
Charles Ellicott
On John 5:26
19th Century
Bishop
Has He given to the Son.—Better, gave He to the Son also.
Life in himself.—The Son has spoken of …
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Charles Spurgeon
On John 5:25–30
19th Century
Preacher
Christ as Mediator did the will of the Father, and yet also did his own will, for his will was always the same as his Father's.
Expositor's Bible Commentary
On John 5:26
We do not have inherent life within ourselves, for our life is derived from others. Again Jesus claimed deity by saying he was not dependent on ano…
John Calvin
On John 5:26
16th Century
Theologian
For as the Father has life in himself. He shows from where his voice derives such efficacy; namely, that he is the fountain of life
John Gill
On John 5:26
17th Century
Pastor
For as the Father has life in himself
Is the living God, the fountain of life, and is the author of life to all livi…
Matthew Henry
On John 5:24–29
17th Century
Minister
Our Lord declared His authority and character, as the Messiah. The time had come when the dead would hear His voice, as the Son of God, and live. O…