John 5:23

That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

John 5:23 (KJV)

Context

This verse comes from Jesus’ response after healing an invalid man at the pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath. The Jewish leaders accused Jesus of breaking the Sabbath and of making Himself equal with God. In reply, Jesus explained His unique relationship with the Father and the authority the Father had given Him. Verse 22 states that the Father has committed all judgment to the Son, and verse 23 gives the purpose: that all men should honor the Son just as they honor the Father.

Meaning

Jesus declares that all people should honor the Son, referring to Himself, with the same honor they give to the Father. The Greek word for honor implies respect, reverence, and esteem, and the phrase “even as” indicates the same kind and degree of honor. This statement is a direct assertion of Jesus’ divine nature and His equality with the Father. The verse then adds a solemn warning: the one who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. The Father’s sending of the Son does not diminish the Son’s dignity; rather, it establishes the Son as the Father’s appointed representative, so that honor given to the Son is honor given to the Father.

Biblical connections

This teaching is foundational for understanding the deity of Christ and the doctrine of the Trinity. Jesus is not merely a prophet or teacher; He is worthy of the same honor as God the Father. The verse also connects to the broader Johannine theme that the Son reveals the Father. The Father’s glory is at stake in how the Son is treated, and this verse serves as a warning against any teaching or practice that diminishes the honor due to Christ.

Application

This verse calls believers to give Jesus the honor and reverence due to Him. Honoring the Son is not merely an outward expression but a matter of the heart. It involves recognizing Jesus as the Messiah and Savior, acknowledging His divine authority, obeying His teachings, and placing faith in Him for salvation. Our worship of God is incomplete if we neglect to honor Jesus as the Son. We cannot claim to love God while dishonoring His Son. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts: do we truly honor Christ as God in our thoughts, words, and actions?

Reflection

Jesus also reveals His role as the Mediator between humanity and the Father. By emphasizing the connection between honoring the Son and honoring the Father, Jesus establishes Himself as the way through which people can approach and worship God. He is the bridge that enables us to have a relationship with the Father. True honor for God is incomplete if it does not extend to honoring the Son, for the Father has sent the Son so that all might honor Him.