In John 5:36–38, Jesus emphasizes His close relationship with the Father and the validation of His mission through the Father’s works and testimony.
Works as a Testimony (v. 36)
Jesus points out that the works He performs—miracles, healings, and teachings—are given to Him by the Father. These works are not only miraculous signs but also a testimony that God sent Him.
Direct Testimony of the Father (v. 37)
Jesus says that the Father has personally testified on His behalf. This may refer to events like Jesus' baptism, where God’s voice was heard, affirming Jesus as His beloved Son, and other scriptural prophecies that point to Jesus.
The Father's Word and Belief (v. 38)
Jesus confronts His listeners, saying that they don’t have the Father's word abiding in them because they don’t believe in the One He has sent. Their lack of belief in Jesus reflects a disconnect from truly receiving and understanding God’s word.
Jesus points to the Father’s active role in affirming His identity and mission, with works and testimony designed to reveal Jesus as sent from God.
In other Scripture
The Father affirms Jesus as His beloved Son, expressing His approval and delight in Him. At Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:17, Mark 1:11, Luke 3:22) and the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:5, 2 Peter 1:17–18), God’s voice from heaven declares, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” In Matthew 17:5, He also adds, “Listen to Him,” urging people to heed Jesus' authority.
More: Lesson 6 More Testimonies about Jesus