John 5:28 (KJV)

What does John 5:28 mean?

John 5:28 says not to be surprised, because a time is coming when everyone who has died will hear the voice of Jesus. This verse points to a future event when those in their graves will respond to his call.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to a crowd, including religious leaders, after healing a man on the Sabbath. He is explaining his authority and the coming resurrection. The verse stresses that this resurrection will be universal—“all that are in the graves”—and that it will happen at a specific time determined by God.

The Greek behind John 5:28

• The word for "graves" is μνημεῖον (mnēmeion), which means tomb or burial place. This shows that Jesus is talking about those who have physically died, not just a spiritual condition.
• The word for "hear" is ἀκούω (akouō), which means to listen or pay attention. In this context, it suggests an active response to Jesus’ voice, not just a passive hearing.
• The word for "voice" is φωνή (phōnē), meaning sound or call. The verse emphasizes that it is specifically Jesus’ voice that will summon the dead.

Why John 5:28 matters

• John 5:28 clarifies that Jesus is speaking about a literal resurrection, not just a metaphorical or spiritual awakening.
• The verse highlights Jesus’ authority, showing that even those who have died will respond to him.
• This statement connects to the larger theme in John 5, where Jesus explains his unique relationship with God the Father and his power over life and death.