For I have not spoken on my own authority but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment - what to say and what to speak. And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say therefore, I say as the Father had told me.Commandment. What is the commandment come from the Father? It seems that it could be - 'what to say and what to speak' - meaning that it includes all of Jesus' teaching. This is the commandment of the Father, here meaning not a solitary command but an overall theme. That theme may well be 'listen to me and obey me.' since that seems to come out more clearly as an overall message.
John 12:49
The commandment could be what Jesus i referring to that will judge people. Whatever he's meaning by this idea he reveals here a Father who commissions and sends and who is clear as to purpose and intent. We see God empowers with authority and therefore gives what is needed for a task.
The Father isn't a micro manager but he is clear and specific even to the point of telling Jesus what to say.
He isn't a silent or passive Father. He releases his Son (and by implication, us) to do what he's called us to do.
He is also inviting people to eternal life. His commandment is eternal life. His commandment/instruction is what leads to and is eternal life. He isn't interested in rule keeping for the sake of it. He is interested in people walking in and knowing and enjoying eternal (which means full blooded and forever) life as his children.
This is God. He is a dad who tells his children good things, commands them things that result in a more whole, complete and passionate existence. A dad whose very command is that we listen to and obey his Son, aware that his Son has the model and example we need.
He is a proud and affectionate Father. Several times this theme has occurrred. The theme of 'listen to him' from the Father. The Father wants us to discover and enjoy life but he really wants us to obey his Son. To be as thrilled with the Son as he is. This is the will of the good Father. He is not slow in making me see how much his Son means to him. This is the sort of dad he is.
Seeing how good his Son is he tells all near him 'listen to him. He will do you you good. He is where you'll find life - listen to him!'