In chapter 5, Jesus heals a paralyzed man at the pool of Bethesda and is questioned by the Jewish leaders. He then explains that he has authority to give life, because he is the Son of God. The verse describes a real transition: whoever hears Jesus' word and believes in the Father crosses from death to life. Eternal life is not only a future promise, but a reality that begins now. Whoever believes already possesses that life and is not under condemnation. Jesus is the source of life that transforms our standing before God.