What does John 3:35 mean?

Explanation

John 3:35 speaks of the special relationship between God the Father and Jesus the Son.

The phrase "The Father loveth the Son" indicates an intimate and infinite love that the Father has for Jesus.

The second part of the verse, "and hath given all things into his hand," signifies that Jesus has been given authority over everything.

This is not only referring to physical possessions or power but extends to all dominion, including spiritual authority and judgement over humanity.

The verse emphasizes Jesus' divine authority and his unique role in the Godhead.

Historical Context

This verse is found within the Gospel of John, which is one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament of the Christian Bible.

John differs from the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) because it contains more theological content about the nature and identity of Jesus.

The Gospel of John was likely composed towards the end of the 1st century, around 90 A.D., when early Christians were distinguishing themselves from Judaism and emphasizing Jesus as the Son of God.

Theological Insights

From a Trinitarian viewpoint, this verse reflects the belief in the distinct personhood and unity of the Father and the Son within the Godhead.

It also aligns with the doctrine of the Son's subordination, an intra-Trinitarian relationship where the Son is subject to the Father's will but is not inferior in nature.

Non-Trinitarian perspectives, such as Arianism or Unitarianism, may see this verse as evidence of the Son's elevated role by the Father's designation but maintain that the Son is not co-eternal with the Father.

Calvinist theology might focus on the sovereign will of God as expressed in Jesus' authority over "all things," seeing it as part of the divine predestination and governance over creation.

Practical Applications

John 3:35 can be applied in believers' lives as a call to recognize and submit to the authority of Jesus. It serves as a reminder to trust in Jesus' wisdom, power, and love for humankind.

This verse also encourages believers to rest in the assurance that Jesus has ultimate control over all circumstances and that nothing is outside his influence or care.

Cross-References

• Matthew 11:27: "All things are delivered unto me of my Father..."
• John 5:22: "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:"
• 1 Corinthians 15:27: "For he hath put all things under his feet.

But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him."

• Ephesians 1:22: "And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,"
• Hebrews 1:2: "Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things..."

Language Study

In the original Greek, key words to consider include:

• "loveth" (Greek: "ἀγαπᾷ" - agapaí): Indicates a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the best for the other.
• "given" (Greek: "δέδωκεν" - dedōken): This is in the perfect tense, meaning the action has been completed and its effects are ongoing.
• "all things" (Greek: "πάντα" - panta): This is all-encompassing, not limiting the scope of authority that has been given.
• "into his hand" (Greek: "εἰς τὴν χεῖρα" - eis tēn cheira): Symbolizes power and control, similar to the idiom of having something "in hand" or "at one's disposal."

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient religions, there are myths of gods entrusting power to their offspring, such as Zeus to Hercules or Odin to Thor in Greek and Norse mythology, respectively.

However, in this biblical context, the relationship between the Father and the Son is unique in its expression of divine love and unity rather than a mere transfer of power.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly engage with scientific concepts, as it is theological in nature.

However, the idea that Jesus has authority over "all things" could be perceived in a manner that encompasses the entirety of the created order, aligning with a view of God as the sustainer and governor of the laws of nature and the universe.

Commentaries

Commentators have offered various insights:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the great love the Father has for the Son and notes that this love should move believers to honor the Son just as they honor the Father.
• The Geneva Study Bible comments on the Son having all power in heaven and earth, which is the foundation of all comfort for believers because it assures them of Christ's ability to save fully.
• The Pulpit Commentary reflects on the divine mission and trust given to the Son in redeeming the world, highlighting the profound implications of the love between the Father and the Son.