John 14 - New Spirit-Filled Life Bible

14:1–4 In 13:36 Jesus responded to Peter’s question individually; now He answers the same question for all the disciples.

14:2 Mansions literally means “dwelling places.” A better translation is “rooms,” conveying the idea that there is ample space in heaven for all who come to Jesus as Savior.

14:6, 7 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of John.

14:6 See section 5 of Truth-In-Action at the end of John.

14:6 The sixth I am pronouncement is threefold, with the last two expressions explaining the sense in which Jesus is the way . . . to the Father. He is the truth about God and the very life of God. As such, He reveals truth to us and gives life to us.

14:12–14 See section 4 of Truth-In-Action at the end of John.

14:12 The promise is not that disciples of Jesus will perform works that are greater in value or significance than His. Rather they are greater in scope and number, in these respects: 1) Because He was crucified, Jesus’ earthly ministry was limited to only a few years, but after the Resurrection and Pentecost, His ministry was and continues to be multiplied through Spirit-empowered believers. 2) Our works include the preaching of the gospel, resulting in the blessings of justification, reconciliation, and the gift of the Holy Spirit coming to humankind—all post-Resurrection manifestations of Christ’s reign (see 5:20).

14:13 Prayer offered in the name of Jesus is in accord with His revealed nature and purpose and has the full weight of His authority behind it.

14:15–24 See section 3 of Truth-In-Action at the end of John.

14:15 The verb keep is not imperative, but future (see footnote). Those who love Christ will prove their devotion by their obedience.

14:18 Jesus refers to His coming in the Person of the Holy Spirit (see 16:16).

14:21 Loving Jesus Christ finds its most comprehensive expression in obeying Jesus’ commandments, which are also the Father’s commandments. A Christianity satisfied with less may be convenient, but is too cheap to be biblical.

14:25, 26 See section 6 of Truth-In-Action at the end of John.

14:26 The ministry of the Holy Spirit is predominantly Christ-oriented, a part of which is to teach and remind the disciples of what Jesus taught in person. The Spirit, then, is never self-serving. One way He teaches us is through gifts of teachings (see text and notes on Rom. 12:7, 8; Eph. 4:8, 11).

14:28, 29 Losing the physical presence of Jesus through His death was a necessary condition of His spiritual return.

14:30 Satan, the ruler of this world (see note on 1 John 5:19), had no foothold in the life of Jesus and no authority over Him.