Jesus’ words in the Gospel of John invite us to consider the mystery and majesty of God’s work in the world. In John 3:7, He says, “Do not be amazed that I said, ‘You must be born again.’” (BSB). This teaching, given to Nicodemus, confronts the natural human tendency to marvel at what is beyond our grasp. The new birth, a work of the Spirit that brings life where there was only death, defies human understanding. Yet Jesus insists it is necessary, not optional, for anyone who desires to enter the kingdom of God.

This theme of marveling resurfaces in John 5:28, where Jesus declares, “Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear His voice.” (BSB). The coming resurrection of the dead is another reality that surpasses human comprehension. It is no small thing to imagine every person, throughout all history, summoned by the voice of the Son of God. Yet Jesus frames this event not as a possibility, but as a certainty grounded in the authority given to Him by the Father.

Saints, You Will Be Amazed

Between these two statements, Jesus gives insight into the heart of the Father in John 5:20: “The Father loves the Son and shows Him all He does. And to your amazement, He will show Him even greater works than these.” (BSB). Here, Jesus pulls back the curtain, revealing that the marvels of spiritual rebirth and resurrection are rooted in the intimate relationship between the Father and the Son. The love of the Father for the Son compels Him to share His work, and the Son’s mission is to accomplish what the Father shows Him. These “greater works” are meant to leave us in awe, not because they are incomprehensible, but because they reveal the limitless power and compassion of God.

Consider how these passages intersect.

The command to not be amazed at the new birth or the resurrection might seem paradoxical, given their magnitude. Yet the amazement Jesus references in John 5:20 is of a different kind. It is not the amazement of doubt or confusion but the wonder of beholding the unity of the Father and the Son in carrying out the plan of redemption. God’s works are astonishing, but they are also trustworthy, designed to bring life and light to those who believe.

How does this truth speak to you? Do you find yourself marveling at the difficulty of the new birth or the mystery of resurrection, or do you stand in awe of the God who orchestrates these realities in love and power? Let the words of Jesus draw you closer to the One who is both the source and sustainer of eternal life.

Complementary passages to reflect on include John 6:40 and Romans 8:11.

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