


John 5:22
Bible Versions
For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:
The Father does not judge anyone but has entrusted all judgment to the Son,
Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son,
For neither doth the Father judge any man, but he hath given all judgment unto the Son;
John 5:22 (KJV) declares a profound truth about the divine authority of Jesus Christ, stating, "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son." This verse is central to understanding Jesus' role in salvation and final accountability.
Context
This statement by Jesus comes amidst a significant discourse following His healing of a man at the pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath (John 5:8-9). This act, and Jesus' subsequent claim of equality with God the Father, provoked hostility from the Jewish leaders. In response, Jesus explains His unique relationship with the Father, emphasizing that He does nothing of Himself but only what He sees the Father do (John 5:19). He asserts His power to give life (John 5:21), setting the stage for His authority in judgment.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word translated "judgeth" is krinō, which encompasses not only the act of condemning but also discerning, evaluating, and separating. It signifies a comprehensive process of determining guilt or innocence, and assigning destiny. The word "committed" comes from didōmi, meaning "to give," "to grant," or "to entrust," emphasizing a deliberate and authoritative transfer of responsibility from the Father to the Son.
Reflection and Application
This verse has profound implications for understanding the person and work of Jesus Christ. It reveals that Jesus is not merely a prophet, a good teacher, or a moral example, but the very one appointed by God to determine the eternal fate of all humanity. For believers, this truth offers comfort, knowing that their Judge is also their Savior (John 3:17). For all people, it underscores the critical importance of one's response to Jesus Christ. Our eternal standing is inextricably linked to how we acknowledge and receive the Son, to whom all judgment has been committed.