Jesus declares an hour is coming, but also that it 'is now here.' What does this urgent timing reveal about God's power and our present reality?
Jesus uses the phrase 'the hour is coming, and now is' to emphasize the immediate power of His message. This isn't just about a future event; it's about a present reality where God's life-giving power is actively at work.
A Present Reality
When Jesus speaks of the dead hearing His voice and living, He's not solely talking about the physical resurrection of bodies that will happen one day. While that future event is certain (John 5:28-29), the 'now is' points to a spiritual awakening that begins the moment someone truly hears and responds to Jesus.
Spiritual vs. Physical Death
Commentators highlight that the primary focus here is spiritual death – being estranged from God due to sin. This state is characterized by an inability to seek God or live according to His will. Jesus' words signify that His voice, empowered by the Spirit, can break through this spiritual death right now, bringing about a new spiritual life.
This immediate work of spiritual resurrection is crucial. It's the 'first resurrection' (Revelation 20:5), where individuals are brought from a state of spiritual death into a living relationship with God.
