Jesus as God
Jesus Came from the Father and Returns to the Father
The statement frames Jesus' earthly life as a descent from a prior relationship with the Father and a return to that relationship.
How this passage contributes to the case:
The labels below identify the kinds of evidence for Jesus' divinity found in this passage.
Select a label for an explanation.
Divine Identity
Unique Relationship with the Father
Pre-existence
Claims Unique Sonship
Pre-exists Earthly Life
Strength of evidence: Strong.
This passage provides substantial evidence relevant to Jesus' divine identity when read in its literary and historical context.
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James Tissot
Scripture
What Was Said or Done
Jesus summarizes his mission by saying he came from the Father into the world and is leaving the world to go to the Father.
Historical and Cultural Context
Prophets are sent by God, but John's language repeatedly speaks of Jesus personally coming from above and from the Father.
Old Testament Background
Daniel 7:13-14 provides broad heavenly-origin background.
Exposition
The saying is a concise statement of personal pre-existence and heavenly origin.
Why This Points to His Divinity
It supports John's repeated distinction between Jesus' earthly birth and his prior existence with the Father.
Response of the Hearers
The disciples say they now understand that Jesus knows all things and came from God.