Scripture: John 5:18 (ESV) – “This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.”
This verse captures the escalation of conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders. His healing on the Sabbath had already provoked them, but now, by calling God “my Father,” He had touched what they considered blasphemy—claiming equality with God. Their response? Not correction, not debate—but a desire to put Him to death.
It’s important to see that the Jewish leaders understood Jesus perfectly. He wasn’t speaking in riddles. He wasn’t misunderstood. They grasped that He was claiming divine status, and they were enraged by it. But what they rejected was the very heart of the gospel: Jesus Christ is God in the flesh, fully divine, fully human, the Son eternally begotten of the Father.
From this point on, the opposition becomes personal and deadly, not merely theological. This is the hinge on which the rest of John 5 turns: Jesus does not retreat from their accusations—He presses in, clarifying, affirming, and explaining exactly what they took offense at. He is one with the Father in will, nature, and authority.
William Gouge, in writing on Christ’s divine nature, notes that no one can rightly honor the Father who does not also honor the Son as God. To Gouge, Jesus’ claim here is not an overreach—it is essential. “To deny the Godhead of Christ,” he writes, “is to rob God of His clearest self-revelation.”
This verse reminds us that the Christian faith rises or falls on this truth: Jesus is equal with God. He is not merely a prophet or teacher. He is the eternal Son, and our salvation depends on that reality. If He were less than God, His work could not save. But because He is one with the Father, His cross has power, His words have authority, and His promises are trustworthy.
Reflection Questions:
- Why did the religious leaders respond so violently to Jesus’ claim to be God’s Son?
- What does it mean for your faith and salvation that Jesus is equal with God?
- Do you honor the Son as fully God? How does that impact your worship and your daily life?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You are not only our Savior but our God. You are one with the Father, worthy of our worship and trust. Forgive us when we treat You as less than divine, and strengthen our faith to see You clearly and confess You boldly. May our hearts burn with reverence for You, and may we never turn away from the glory of Your person. Amen.
This devotional is based on John 5:18, drawing from the teaching of Pastor Chris Cousine and supplemented by William Gouge’s Christological writings.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 