New Testament
John 5:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him.
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That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.
What John 5:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of honoring Him in the same way that people honor God the Father. The relationship between the Father and the Son is so intertwined that to disregard one is to disregard the other. This statement highlights the divine authority of Jesus and His role in the salvation of humanity. It suggests that recognizing Jesus as the Son of God is essential for a true relationship with the Father. The honor given to Jesus is not merely respect but a recognition of His divine nature and mission. This verse serves as a reminder that faith in Jesus is central to understanding and connecting with God. It challenges believers to reflect on their view of Jesus and to ensure that their honor and worship are directed towards Him as they would towards God.
How to apply John 5:23 to your life
To apply this verse, we should actively honor Jesus in our daily lives through worship, prayer, and obedience to His teachings. Recognizing His divine authority helps us deepen our relationship with God. Reflect on how you can show honor to Jesus in your actions and words.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
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John the Apostle
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 5:23 mean?
John 5:23 means that honoring Jesus is as important as honoring God the Father. It emphasizes that the relationship between the Father and the Son is so close that to disrespect one is to disrespect the other.
What is the significance of honoring the Son in John 5:23?
Honoring the Son in John 5:23 signifies recognizing Jesus' divine authority and role in salvation. It indicates that true worship and relationship with God require acknowledging Jesus as the Son of God.
How does John 5:23 relate to faith in Jesus?
John 5:23 relates to faith in Jesus by highlighting that belief in Him is essential for a genuine relationship with God. It shows that honoring Jesus is a key aspect of faith and worship.
Why is it important to honor Jesus according to John 5:23?
It is important to honor Jesus according to John 5:23 because it affirms His divine nature and mission. Disregarding Jesus undermines one's relationship with God the Father.
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