When accused of being a Samaritan and having a demon by Jewish leaders, Jesus responds, “I do not have a demon, but I honor my Father, whereas you are dishonoring me” (John 8:49). His opponents think that the point of contention is their descent from Abraham and whether they are thereby children of God (John 8:39–42). What they do not grasp is that the only way to have God as one’s Father and to do him honor is through the mediation of the incarnate Son in their midst to whom the Father has granted all judgment “in order that all might honor the Son just as they honor the Father. The one who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him” (John 5:23). But then comes the shocking clincher: “If anyone would serve me, he must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. If anyone serves me, my Father will honor him” (John 12:26, emphasis added). The fifth commandment is turned on its head for us in glory through Jesus Christ; this is certainly “far more exceeding than anything we may request or imagine” (3:20).
Evangelical Exegetical Commentary: Ephesians