John 5:20 (KJV)

What does John 5:20 mean?

John 5:20 says that God the Father deeply loves Jesus the Son and openly shows him everything he does, and that even greater works will be shown to Jesus so that those watching will be amazed. This verse highlights the close relationship between the Father and the Son, and hints that even more remarkable things are coming.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a group of Jewish leaders who are questioning him after he healed a man on the Sabbath. Jesus explains that his actions are not independent but are in perfect unity with God the Father. The verse sets up the idea that the miracles and works Jesus does are not just his own, but are fully revealed to him by the Father, showing both intimacy and authority.

The Greek behind John 5:20

• The word "loveth" is φιλέω (phileō), which often describes a warm, affectionate love, like that of close friends or family. This emphasizes the deep, personal bond between the Father and the Son.
• The word "sheweth" is δεικνύω (deiknyō), meaning to show or make known. Here, it means the Father is not hiding anything from the Son but is openly sharing all his works.
• The phrase "greater works" uses μείζων (meizōn), meaning "greater" or "more impressive." Jesus hints that even more astonishing things than the healing just witnessed will be revealed, preparing the listeners for what is to come.

Why John 5:20 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that Jesus acts independently from God; it stresses that everything Jesus does comes directly from the Father’s guidance and love.
• John 5:20 prepares the reader for the bigger miracles and teachings that will follow, showing that Jesus’ authority and power are rooted in his relationship with God.
• The verse highlights the unique closeness between Jesus and God, which is a key theme in the Gospel of John and helps explain why Jesus’ actions are so significant.