John 14:18-27 is about Jesus promising his disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit to bring comfort, peace, and guidance after his departure, assuring them that they will not be left alone.
18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”
19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.
20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.
21 Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.
22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?”
23 Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.
24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me.
25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you.
26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
Setting the Scene for John 14:18-27
In John chapter 14, we find Jesus speaking to his disciples in the upper room in Jerusalem, just before his crucifixion. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of those gathered. The disciples are seated around a low table, their expressions a mix of confusion and concern as Jesus talks about his impending departure.
Among the disciples present are Peter, James, John, Thomas, and Judas Iscariot. They have come together after sharing a meal, and the atmosphere is heavy with the weight of Jesus’ words. Jesus speaks to them with a calm assurance, promising that although he will soon leave them, he will not leave them as orphans. He assures them that the Father will send the Holy Spirit to be their Advocate and guide, bringing them peace and understanding in his absence.
As Jesus speaks, the disciples listen intently, their eyes fixed on him as he imparts these words of comfort and reassurance. The room is filled with a sense of anticipation and uncertainty, but also with a deep bond of love and trust between Jesus and his followers. The disciples may not fully grasp the significance of what Jesus is telling them in that moment, but they hold onto his words, finding solace in the promise of the Holy Spirit’s presence in their lives.
What is John 14:18-27 about?
Jesus assures his followers in this verse that they will not be left alone after he physically departs from the world. The promise of the Holy Spirit is like a comforting embrace that will provide guidance, strength, and support to believers as they navigate their faith journey. The Holy Spirit is seen as a constant companion, offering comfort in times of trouble and wisdom in times of uncertainty.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed or lost in your faith journey? The promise of the Holy Spirit reminds us that we are not alone and that help is always near. Just like a dependable friend, the Holy Spirit walks alongside us, providing comfort and direction. This verse serves as a reminder that we can rely on the Holy Spirit’s presence to guide us through life’s challenges and lead us towards a deeper understanding of our faith.
Understanding what John 14:18-27 really means
During the Last Supper, Jesus spoke to His disciples, preparing them for His imminent departure. In John 14:18-27, the main theme revolves around the assurance of His continued presence and the promise of the Holy Spirit. Jesus begins by comforting His followers, saying, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” This statement assures believers that even after His physical departure, He will remain with them. Just as Matthew 28:20 affirms, Jesus promises to be with His followers always, through the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Furthermore, Jesus speaks of His resurrection, declaring, “Because I live, you also will live.” This statement emphasizes the new life that believers receive through Christ’s resurrection, as highlighted in Romans 6:4. The resurrection is foundational to the Christian faith, offering the hope of eternal life to all who believe. Jesus also speaks of the unity between Himself, the Father, and believers, stating, “I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” This unity is made possible through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, as seen in John 17:21, forging a divine relationship between God and His people.
Love for Jesus is demonstrated through obedience, as Jesus affirms, “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me.” This echoes the sentiment in 1 John 5:3, emphasizing that true love for Christ is evidenced by following His teachings. The reciprocal love between the believer, Jesus, and the Father is highlighted in the verse, “The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” This deep bond of love underscores the intimate relationship believers have with the Triune God.
Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as a teacher and guide, stating, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” This promise, as mentioned in John 16:13, assures believers of the Spirit’s role in providing wisdom, understanding, and remembrance of Jesus’ teachings. Moreover, Jesus offers a unique peace, declaring, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” This divine peace, unlike the world’s fleeting tranquility, is a source of enduring strength and comfort, as expressed in Philippians 4:7.
In conclusion, John 14:18-27 provides timeless assurances of Jesus’ presence, the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and divine peace. These promises remain relevant today, offering comfort, direction, and hope in a world filled with uncertainties. Just as a young woman found solace and clarity through prayer and the Holy Spirit’s presence in a moment of decision-making, we too can trust in Jesus’ promises and experience His peace in the midst of life’s challenges.
How can we experience God’s peace in trials?
We can experience God’s peace in times of trials by holding on to the promise of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance. We can find comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our struggles, just as Jesus assured his disciples that he would not leave them as orphans but would send them the Helper. The Holy Spirit brings with Him the peace of God that surpasses all understanding, calming our hearts and minds amidst the storm. We can tap into the peace that Jesus offers us by keeping our focus on Him and His teachings. Our perspective shifts from the overwhelming nature of our trials to the unchanging nature of God’s character as we meditate on His words and allow them to dwell richly within us. Trusting in His sovereignty and believing in His promises helps us to navigate through difficulties with a sense of peace that can only come from divine assurance.
Prayer also plays a crucial role in experiencing God’s peace in trials. When we pour out our anxieties, fears, and worries before the Lord, we release the burdens that weigh us down and make room for His peace to flood our souls. Through prayer, we invite God to intervene in our circumstances, trusting that He is not only able but willing to provide us with the comfort and strength we need to endure.
Application
Imagine having a personal advisor who’s always there, never leaving your side. That’s what we have with the Holy Spirit. John 14:18-27 promises this support, just like a mentor guiding your career or a loved one supporting you at home. Are you ready to harness this divine wisdom and peace, even when life’s chaotic?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.