John 14 - CSB Study Bible for Women

14:1-26 The “Farewell Discourse” or “Upper Room Discourse” has been one of the most appreciated and revered sections by believers in every era. This intimate and moving account of Jesus’s instructions to His disciples took place after Jesus’s last Passover meal and was recorded in detail by John. Chapters 14–17 resemble the established genre of a farewell discourse in Jewish literature. A great leader whose death was imminent might well prepare his followers for the future life, including the continuation of his work.

Sandwiched between Jesus’s discussion of His departure and return (14:1-31 and 16:5-33) are His words of admonition to “remain in” Him (15:1-17) and His warning concerning the hatred of the world to be incurred by His followers (15:18–16:4). The main teaching of this entire discourse is Christ’s encouraging revelation concerning the person and work of the coming Holy Spirit, who would ultimately bring them comfort and give them courage (14:26). He would never leave them (vv. 16-17). The ultimate purpose of this discourse was to help the disciples understand Christ’s death and resurrection. The Holy Spirit would shed further light on the person and work of Christ (v. 26).

Peter was the first to ask where Jesus was going (13:36). Jesus answered that He was returning to the Father to prepare a place for them (vv. 1-4). The rooms (Gk monai, “staying place, abode”) may be referring to places where the disciples can find peaceful living (vv. 2,23) but is probably more a reference to permanent dwelling places. Jesus’s claim that they knew the way to where He was going prompted Thomas to ask about the way (v. 5). Thomas was skeptical and full of doubt, and he expressed those feelings honestly (v. 5). He in no way rejected Jesus, for he had already expressed a willingness to die for Him (11:16).Jesus’s answer, His sixth “I am” statement (14:6), was startling and authoritative.

14:27-31 Peace (Gk eirēnēn, “tranquility, unity”) is not the cessation of conflict and difficulty. Even Jesus spoke of being troubled and agitated about the existing circumstances of life (12:27), and He knew a violent and painful death awaited Him. However, in the midst of sorrow and suffering and injustice, Jesus had confidence in the Father so that He could move without fear along the journey before Him (14:27). The ruler of the world was a reference to the devil (v. 30), who was continually present to sow his discord and deceit.