What does it mean that 'the dead shall hear' in John 5:25?

'The dead shall hear' in John 5:25 refers to the life-giving call of Christ that transforms spiritually dead individuals into living believers. This verse highlights the power of Christ's command, which penetrates the death of sin and grants spiritual life. It emphasizes that hearing His voice is not merely auditory but a divine action that bestows life. Ephesians 2:5 supports this idea, stating that God made us alive together with Christ. This illustrates that spiritual awakening and regeneration are not initiated by the individual but are the result of God's sovereign will, as they respond to Christ's authoritative call and receive His life.