John 5:18
The Divine Claim: Why Jesus’ Equality with God Changes Everything In the Gospel of John, we encounter a pivotal moment that defines the entire trajectory of Jesus’ earthly ministry and ultimate sacrifice. Today, we are meditating on John 5:18 : "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." While Jesus often faced opposition for His radical approach to the Sabbath, this verse points to a much deeper, more controversial accusation: He claimed absolute equality with God. The Two Accusations The religious leaders of the day sought to kill Jesus for two distinct reasons: Breaking the Sabbath: Healing the sick and performing miracles on the day of rest. Making Himself equal with God: Claiming a unique, divine sonship. While all human beings are part of God's creation, and believers are adopted into His family as children of God, Jesus’ clai...