New Testament
John 5:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For just as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself.
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For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
What John 5:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus explains the relationship between Himself and God the Father. Just as God possesses life inherently, meaning He is the source of all life, Jesus also has this same quality. This indicates that the Son is not merely a created being but shares in the divine nature of God. The phrase 'life in himself' suggests that both the Father and the Son have the power to give life and sustain it. This is significant because it affirms the divinity of Jesus and His authority over life and death. It also emphasizes the unity between the Father and the Son, showing that they are both essential to the understanding of eternal life. This verse reassures believers of the divine nature of Jesus and His role in granting eternal life to those who believe in Him, highlighting the importance of faith in Him as the source of spiritual life.
How to apply John 5:26 to your life
Understanding that Jesus has life in Himself encourages believers to trust in Him for spiritual sustenance. It reminds us that through faith in Christ, we can access eternal life and experience a deep, personal relationship with God. This assurance can strengthen our faith during challenging times.
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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Keep studying John 5:26
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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 5:26 mean?
John 5:26 explains that just as God the Father has life in Himself, Jesus, the Son, also possesses this inherent life. This indicates that Jesus shares in the divine nature of God and is not merely a created being.
What is the significance of 'life in himself' in John 5:26?
'Life in himself' signifies that both the Father and the Son have the power to give and sustain life. This emphasizes their divine authority and unity, affirming Jesus' role in granting eternal life.
How does John 5:26 relate to the concept of eternal life?
John 5:26 relates to eternal life by affirming that Jesus, having life in Himself, has the authority to grant eternal life to believers. This underscores the importance of faith in Him for spiritual sustenance.
What themes are present in John 5:26?
Key themes in John 5:26 include the divine nature of Jesus, the concept of eternal life, the unity between the Father and the Son, and the authority of Jesus as the source of life.
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