October 31, 2025
Who is the Holy Spirit?
John 14-17
Sarah Risser
Big Book Idea
Written to the world, and full of doctrine, John shows us Jesus is the savior of the world.
Key Verse | John 14:26
"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."
John 14-17
Chapter 14
I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life
1 Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; 1 14:1 Or You believe in God believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 2 14:2 Or In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.” 3 14:4 Some manuscripts Where I am going you know, and the way you know 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. 4 14:7 Or If you know me, you will know my Father also, or If you have known me, you will know my Father also From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.
12 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me 5 14:14 Some manuscripts omit me anything in my name, I will do it.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit
15 If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, 6 14:16 Or Advocate, or Counselor; also 14:26; 15:26; 16:7 to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be 7 14:17 Some manuscripts and is in you.
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. 28 You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. 30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, 31 but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.
Chapter 15
I Am the True Vine
1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
12 This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, 8 15:15 Or bondservants, or slaves (for the contextual rendering of the Greek word doulos, see Preface); likewise for servant later in this verse and in verse 20 for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. 17 These things I command you, so that you will love one another.
The Hatred of the World
18 If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. 21 But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, 9 15:22 Greek they would not have sin; also verse 24 but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.’
26 But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me. 27 And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning.
Chapter 16
1 I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away. 2 They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. 3 And they will do these things because they have not known the Father, nor me. 4 But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.
The Work of the Holy Spirit
I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
12 I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy
16 A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” 17 So some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I am going to the Father’?” 18 So they were saying, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We do not know what he is talking about.” 19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me’? 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. 21 When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. 22 So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. 23 In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
I Have Overcome the World
25 I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father. 26 In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; 27 for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. 10 16:27 Some manuscripts from the Father 28 I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.”
29 His disciples said, “Ah, now you are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech! 30 Now we know that you know all things and do not need anyone to question you; this is why we believe that you came from God.” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 32 Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. 33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Chapter 17
The High Priestly Prayer
1 When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, 2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4 I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. 5 And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.
6 I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. 11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 11 17:15 Or from evil 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them 12 17:17 Greek Set them apart (for holy service to God) in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, 13 17:19 Or I sanctify myself; or I set myself apart (for holy service to God) that they also may be sanctified 14 17:19 Greek may be set apart (for holy service to God) in truth.
20 I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”
Footnotes
[1] 14:1 Or You believe in God[2] 14:2 Or In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you
[3] 14:4 Some manuscripts Where I am going you know, and the way you know
[4] 14:7 Or If you know me, you will know my Father also, or If you have known me, you will know my Father also
[5] 14:14 Some manuscripts omit me
[6] 14:16 Or Advocate, or Counselor; also 14:26; 15:26; 16:7
[7] 14:17 Some manuscripts and is
[8] 15:15 Or bondservants, or slaves (for the contextual rendering of the Greek word doulos, see Preface); likewise for servant later in this verse and in verse 20
[9] 15:22 Greek they would not have sin; also verse 24
[10] 16:27 Some manuscripts from the Father
[11] 17:15 Or from evil
[12] 17:17 Greek Set them apart (for holy service to God)
[13] 17:19 Or I sanctify myself; or I set myself apart (for holy service to God)
[14] 17:19 Greek may be set apart (for holy service to God)
Table of Contents
Introduction to John
Timeline
Author, Date, and Recipients
John the son of Zebedee wrote this Gospel. He was a Palestinian Jew, one of the 12 disciples, and a member of Jesus’ inner apostolic circle. He was referred to as the disciple “whom Jesus loved” (13:23). John also wrote 1–3 John and Revelation. He likely wrote his Gospel account between A.D. 70 (the date of the destruction of the temple) and A.D. 100 (the reputed end of John’s life). It was likely written from Ephesus in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire at the time. His original audience consisted of Jews and Gentiles living in the larger Greco-Roman world in Ephesus and beyond, toward the close of the first century A.D.
Theme and Purpose
The theme of John’s Gospel is that Jesus is the long-awaited, promised Messiah and Son of God. By believing in Jesus, people have eternal life (see 20:30–31).
As evidence that Jesus is the Messiah, John relies on several selected messianic signs performed by Jesus and a series of witnesses to Jesus. These include the Scriptures, John the Baptist, Jesus himself, God the Father, Jesus’ miraculous works, the Holy Spirit, and John himself.
Key Themes
- Jesus. Jesus is God, the “I am.” He existed before the creation of the world, and he has supernatural knowledge. He fulfills the Jewish festivals and institutions. As the sent Son of God, he reflects the Sender. Signs and witnesses demonstrate that he is the Messiah.
- The Trinity. Father, Son, and Spirit are united in their work of revelation and redemption.
- Salvation. God is sovereign in salvation. Jesus’ death is the basis of salvation, which is obtained through believing in the living Jesus as the Son of God
- Eternal Life. Jesus is the giver of eternal life. Believers can experience some of salvation’s benefits during this present evil age.
- Mission. Believers are called to continue Jesus’ mission.
Outline
- Prologue: The Incarnate Word (1:1–18)
- Signs of the Messiah, with Teaching about Life in Him (1:19–12:50)
- The Farewell Teaching and the Passion Narrative (13:1–20:31)
- Epilogue: The Roles of Peter and of the Disciple Whom Jesus Loved (21:1–25)
The Setting of John
The events of the Gospel of John take place in Palestine, incorporated into the Roman Empire in 63 B.C. Appointed by the Romans as king over the Jews in 37 B.C., Herod the Great ruled until his death in 4 B.C. The Romans divided his kingdom among his descendants.
Fact: Vine
Ezekiel compares the Jerusalemites to a vine that can only be used as fuel for a fire (ch. 15). In the Bible, the people of God are often compared to a vine. Jesus describes his relationship with his followers using vine imagery in John 15:1–11.
Fact: The Holy Spirit
Jesus promises his disciples that the Holy Spirit will live within them, to teach them and remind them what Jesus has said (14:16–17, 26; see also 16:5–15). The Holy Spirit is also called the “Helper,” which can mean “Advocate” or “Counselor.”
Fact: The Farewell Discourse
In 13:31–16:33, Jesus prepares his disciples for his departure from them. This is often called the Farewell Discourse. Jesus shows his disciples that his death and resurrection will bring them blessing.
Fact: Praying in Jesus’ name
Praying in Jesus’ name (16:23; compare 14:13) is not about whether or not the prayer ends with the exact words “in Jesus’ name.” It means acknowledging that Jesus is our advocate or mediator before God the Father (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25; 1 John 2:1).
Fact: Abide in Jesus
To abide in Jesus means living in a daily, close relationship with him, characterized by trust, prayer, obedience, and joy. The Holy Spirit’s presence and activity within Christians gives evidence that they are abiding in Christ (John 8:31, 6:56, 15:4; 1 John 2:6, 27–28; 3:6).
The Twelve Apostles*
| Matthew 10:2–4 | Mark 3:16–19 | Luke 6:14–16 | John (various verses) | Acts 1:13 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Simon, who is called Peter | 1. Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter) | 1. Simon, whom he named Peter | Simon Peter (1:40–42) | 1. Peter |
| 2. Andrew his [Simon Peter’s] brother | 4. Andrew | 2. Andrew his [Simon Peter’s] brother | Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother (1:40) | 4. Andrew |
| 3. James the son of Zebedee | 2. James the son of Zebedee | 3. James | unnamed son of Zebedee (21:2) | 3. James |
| 4. John his [James’s] brother | 3. John the brother of James | 4. John | unnamed son of Zebedee (21:2) | 2. John |
| 5. Philip | 5. Philip | 5. Philip | Philip of Bethsaida (1:43–44) | 5. Philip |
| 6. Bartholomew | 6. Bartholomew | 6. Bartholomew | Nathanael of Cana (1:45–49; 21:2)** | 7. Bartholomew |
| 7. Thomas | 8. Thomas | 8. Thomas | Thomas called the Twin (11:16) | 6. Thomas |
| 8. Matthew the tax collector | 7. Matthew (Levi, son of Alphaeus, a tax collector, 2:14) | 7. Matthew (Levi, tax collector, 5:27) | 8. Matthew | |
| 9. James the son of Alphaeus | 9. James the son of Alphaeus | 9. James the son of Alphaeus | 9. James the son of Alphaeus | |
| 10. Thaddaeus | 10. Thaddaeus | 11. Judas the son of James | Judas (not Iscariot) (14:22) | 11. Judas the son of James |
| 11. Simon the Zealot | 11. Simon the Zealot | 10. Simon who was called the Zealot | 10. Simon the Zealot | |
| 12. Judas Iscariot | 12. Judas Iscariot | 12. Judas Iscariot | Judas the son of Simon Iscariot (6:71) | 12. Matthias replaces Judas [who had died] (Acts 1:26) |
*Others in the NT are regarded as apostles besides the Twelve, notably James the brother of Jesus (Acts 15:12–21; 1 Cor. 15:7; Gal. 1:19), Paul (Acts 14:4, 14; 1 Cor. 9:1; 15:8–9), and Barnabas (Acts 14:4, 14).
**Nathanael is probably Bartholomew, since he is closely associated with Philip. He is certainly not Levi/Matthew, who already has two names and who was from Capernaum. It is possible but unlikely that he is Thaddeus/Judas or Simon the Zealot.
Harmony of the Events of Holy Week
| Day | Event | Matthew | Mark | Luke | John |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday/Saturday | Jesus arrives in Bethany | 12:1 | |||
| Mary anoints Jesus | 12:2–8 | ||||
| Crowd comes to see Jesus | 12:9–11 | ||||
| Sunday | Triumphal entry into Jerusalem | 21:1–11 | 11:1–10 | 19:28–44 | 12:12–18 |
| Some Greeks seek Jesus | 12:20–36 | ||||
| Jesus weeps over Jerusalem | 19:41 | ||||
| Enters temple | 11:11 | ||||
| Returns to Bethany | 21:17 | 11:11 | |||
| Monday | Jesus curses the fig tree | 21:18–19 | 11:12–14 | ||
| Clears the temple | 21:12–13 | 11:15–17 | 19:45–46 | ||
| Returns to Bethany with the Twelve | 11:19 | ||||
| Tuesday | Disciples see the withered fig tree on the return to Jerusalem | 21:20–22 | 11:20–21 | ||
| Temple controversies in Jerusalem | 21:23–23:39 | 11:27–12:44 | 20:1–21:4 | ||
| Olivet Discourse on the return to Bethany | 24:1–25:46 | 13:1–37 | 21:5–36 | ||
| Wednesday | Jesus continues daily teaching in the temple | 21:37–38 | |||
| Sanhedrin plots to kill Jesus | 26:3–5 | 14:1–2 | 22:1–2 | ||
| Wednesday/Thursday | Preparations for the Passover | 26:17–19 | 14:12–16 | 22:7–13 | |
| Thursday | Passover meal/Last Supper | 26:20–35 | 14:17–26 | 22:14–30 | |
| Upper Room Discourse | 13:1–17:26 | ||||
| Jesus prays in Gethsemane | 26:36–46 | 14:32–42 | 22:39–46 | ||
| Friday | Betrayal and arrest (after midnight?) | 26:47–56 | 14:43–52 | 22:47–53 | 18:2–12 |
| Jewish trial: | |||||
| —before Annas | 18:13–24 | ||||
| —before Caiaphas and part of the Sanhedrin | 26:57–75 | 14:53–72 | 22:54–65 | 18:19–24 | |
| —before full Sanhedrin (after sunrise?) | 27:1–2 | 15:1 | 22:66–71 | ||
| Roman trials: | |||||
| —before Pilate | 27:2–14 | 15:2–5 | 23:1–5 | ||
| —before Herod | 23:6–12 | ||||
| —before Pilate | 27:15–26 | 15:6–15 | 23:13–25 | 18:28–19:16 | |
| Crucifixion (approx. 9:00 A.M.to 3:00 P.M.) | 27:27–54 | 15:16–39 | 23:26–49 | 19:16–37 | |
| Burial (evening) | 27:57–61 | 15:42–47 | 23:50–54 | 19:38–42 | |
| Sunday | Empty-tomb witnesses | 28:1–8 | 16:1–8 | 24:1–12 | |
| Resurrection appearances | 28:9–20 | 16:9–20 | 24:13–53 | 20:1–21:25 |
The Work of the Trinity
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, by presenting the Father, Son, and Spirit together, all doing what no one else ever does, the Gospel of John gives us the foundation on which this doctrine is based. Observing what God says and does helps us to know him, and observing which actions are done by which members of the Godhead helps us to see which roles they play.
| Action | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give life | 5:21, 26; (6:33); 17:3 | 5:21, 25–26, 40; 6:33; 17:3 | 3:6, 8; 6:63 |
| Proclaim future | 1:33 | 13:19, 26, 36–38; 14:3, 29; 16:1–4, 16–28, 32; 20:18 | 16:13 |
| Indwell believers | 14:23 | 14:20, 23; (15:4–7); 17:23, 26 | 14:17 |
| Teach | 6:45; 7:16, 17; 8:28 | 7:14; (8:2); 8:20; 13:13–14 | 14:26 |
| Testify to Jesus | 5:32, 37; 6:27; 8:18 | 8:12–14, 18 | 15:26 |
| Glorify Jesus | 5:22–23; 8:50, 54; 13:31–32; 17:1, 22 | (1:14); 2:11; 13:31–32; 17:5, 24 | 16:14 |
Actions Common to Father and Son
| Action | Father | Son |
|---|---|---|
| Glorify the Father | 4:23; 12:28; 13:31–32 | (2:16); (9:3–4); 11:40; 12:28; 13:31–32; 14:13; 17:1, 4–5 |
| Give the Spirit | 3:34; 14:16 | (4:10–14); (7:37–39); 20:22 |
| Send the Spirit | 14:26 | 15:26; 16:7 |
Actions Common to Son and Spirit
| Action | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|
| Be given by the Father | 3:16 | (4:10–14); 14:16 |
| Be sent by the Father | 3:17; 4:34; 5:23–24, 36; 6:29, 57; 7:28–29, 33; 8:16, 26, 29, 42; 9:4; 10:36; 11:42; 12:44–45; 13:20; 15:21; 17:3, 8, 18, 23, 25; 20:21 | 14:26; 15:26 |
| Speak not from himself | (5:19); 5:30; (6:38); 7:16; 12:49–50 | 16:13 |
| Speak only what he hears | 3:32; (3:34); (5:30); 8:26, 40; 12:50; 15:15 | 16:13 |
| Convict | 3:19–20; 4:16, 18; (5:27); (8:7); 8:34, 40; 11:40; 12:7–8; 13:8 | 16:7–11 |
| Be received | 1:12 (see 1:10–11) | 7:39 (see 14:17) |
| Disclose what belongs to God | 1:18 | 16:13–14 |
The High Priestly Prayer
| The Father Gave the Son . . . | John 17 |
|---|---|
| authority to give eternal life | v. 2 |
| people out of this world | vv. 2, 6, 9, 24 |
| work to accomplish | v. 4 |
| words | v. 8 |
| his name | vv. 11, 12 |
| glory | vv. 22, 24 |
| The Son Gives Believers . . . | John 17 |
|---|---|
| eternal life | v. 2 |
| the Father’s word | vv. 8, 14 |
| manifestation of the Father’s name | vv. 6, 26 |
| glory | v. 22 |
| The Son Asks the Father to . . . | John 17 |
|---|---|
| glorify him | vv. 1, 5 |
| keep believers in the Father’s name | v. 11 |
| keep believers from the evil one | v. 15 |
| sanctify believers in the truth | v. 17 |
| make believers one | v. 21 |
| Jesus’ Followers and the World | John 17 |
|---|---|
| they are sent into the world | v. 18 |
| they are in the world | v. 11 |
| they are not of the world | v. 16 |
| the world has hated them | v. 14 |
| their unity with each other and union with God may cause the world to believe the Father sent the Son | v. 21 |
Physical Items Used by Jesus to Teach Spiritual Truths
Though often misunderstood by Jesus’ hearers, these tangible metaphors explain the gospel.
| Physical Item | Spiritual Truth | References |
|---|---|---|
| Light | true knowledge and presence of God; moral purity | 1:4–5, 7–9; 3:19–21; 8:12; 9:5; 11:9–10; 12:35–36, 46; see 1 John 2:8–10 |
| Jerusalem temple | Christ’s physical body | 2:19–22 |
| Physical birth | spiritual birth: being “born again” | 1:13; 3:3–8; see 6:63; 1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1, 18 |
| Wind | the Holy Spirit | 3:8 |
| Water | the Holy Spirit within believers | 4:7–15; 7:37–39; see 1 John 5:6, 8 |
| Food | doing the will of God | 4:31–34 |
| Bread | Jesus himself, his life and death | 6:32–51, 58 |
| Flesh and blood | Jesus’ death | 6:53–56; see 1 John 1:7; 5:6, 8 |
| Door | path to eternal life in Jesus | 10:1–9 |
| Shepherd | Jesus’ self-sacrifice and care for his people | 10:11–18, 26–28; 21:15–17 |
| Vine | Jesus in relationship to his followers | 15:1–11 |
| Cup | God’s wrath toward sin | 18:11 |
| Breath | the Holy Spirit coming upon the disciples | 20:22 |
The “I Am” Statements of Jesus
| Absolute “I am” statements | 6:20; 8:24, 28, 58; 18:5 |
| Metaphorical “I am” statements | |
| 1. I am the bread of life | 6:35, 48, 51 |
| 2. I am the light of the world | 8:12; 9:5 |
| 3. I am the door of the sheep | 10:7, 9 |
| 4. I am the good shepherd | 10:11, 14 |
| 5. I am the resurrection and the life | 11:25 |
| 6. I am the way, the truth, and the life | 14:6 |
| 7. I am the true vine | 15:1 |
Witnesses to Jesus
| 1. John the Baptist | 5:32–36; see 1:7–8, 15, 19, 32–34; 3:26 |
| 2. Jesus’ own works | 5:36; see 10:25, 32, 37–38; 15:24 |
| 3. God the Father | 5:37–38; 8:18 |
| 4. The Scriptures, especially by Moses | 5:39, 45–47 |
| 5. Jesus himself | 3:11, 32; 8:14, 18; 18:37 |
| 6. The Spirit | 14:26; 15:26; 16:8–11, 13–14 |
| 7. The disciples, especially John | 15:27; 19:35; 21:24 |
John 14:1 The ESV translates Believe in God as an imperative (a command), but it could also be rendered as a statement (“You believe in God”; see ESV footnote). The imperative is probably the better translation in light of the previous sentence (Let not your hearts be troubled). The disciples are troubled about Jesus’ imminent departure (see 13:36).
John 14:2–3 In light of the context (Jesus going back to the Father; 13:1, 3; 14:28), it is best to understand my Father’s house as referring to heaven, and the many rooms (or “dwelling places”) as places to live within that large house.
John 14:6 Jesus is the one way to the Father. Salvation can be found only in Christ (see note on 3:18). Jesus as the truth fulfills the teaching of the OT (1:17) and reveals the true God (see 1:14, 17; 5:33; 18:37; also 8:40, 45–46; 14:9). Jesus alone is the life who fulfills the OT promises of “life” from God (11:25–26). Jesus is able to give eternal life to all those who believe in him (see 3:16). This is another I am saying, whereby Jesus claims to be God (see note on 6:35).
The “I Am” Statements of Jesus
| Absolute “I am” statements | 6:20; 8:24, 28, 58; 18:5 |
| Metaphorical “I am” statements | |
| 1. I am the bread of life | 6:35, 48, 51 |
| 2. I am the light of the world | 8:12; 9:5 |
| 3. I am the door of the sheep | 10:7, 9 |
| 4. I am the good shepherd | 10:11, 14 |
| 5. I am the resurrection and the life | 11:25 |
| 6. I am the way, the truth, and the life | 14:6 |
| 7. I am the true vine | 15:1 |
John 14:10 I am in the Father and the Father is in me. Though there is complete unity between the Father and the Son, they are distinct persons within the Trinity (Matt. 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14).
John 14:8–11 Philip apparently asks for some sort of appearance by God, such as Moses and Isaiah experienced (Ex. 33:18; compare Ex. 24:10; Isa. 6:1). Jesus replies that those who have seen him have seen the Father—a clear claim to deity.
John 14:12 the works that I do. Jesus’ “works” include both his miracles (see 7:21) and his other activities and teachings (see 4:34; 5:36; 10:32; 17:4). The works his disciples will do will be greater because they will have a worldwide scope.
John 14:13 Praying in Jesus’ name means praying in a way consistent with his character and will. It also means coming to God in the authority of Jesus. See also note on 1 John 5:15.
Fact: Praying in Jesus’ name
Praying in Jesus’ name (16:23; compare 14:13) is not about whether or not the prayer ends with the exact words “in Jesus’ name.” It means acknowledging that Jesus is our advocate or mediator before God the Father (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25; 1 John 2:1).
John 14:14 If you ask me gives permission to pray directly to Jesus, but see ESV footnote. Many other verses encourage prayer to God the Father (see 15:16).
John 14:15 Jesus’ words echo Deuteronomy (compare Deut. 6:5–6; 7:9; 10:12–13; 11:13, 22) and assume his unique authority.
John 14:16–17 The Holy Spirit (compare v. 26), the Spirit of truth who will guide the disciples into all truth (16:13), will serve as another Helper (or “helping Presence”; see also ESV footnote). He will live in Jesus’ followers forever. He is Jesus’ representative after Jesus ascends to heaven. The promise of the divine presence with Jesus’ followers in 14:15–24 includes the Spirit (vv. 15–17), Jesus (vv. 18–21), and the Father (vv. 22–24). He dwells with you and will be in you does not mean there was no work of the Spirit of God within believers prior to this time (see note on 7:39). Rather, it indicates that the Holy Spirit “will be in you” in a new and more powerful sense. See also ESV footnote on 14:16.
John 14:18 I will come to you probably means Jesus will appear to the disciples after his resurrection (chs. 20–21).
John 14:21 keeps. That is, follows and obeys.
John 14:22 The Judas referred to here is probably “Judas the son of James” (Luke 6:16; Acts 1:13), not Judas the half brother of Jesus (Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3).
The Twelve Apostles*
| Matthew 10:2–4 | Mark 3:16–19 | Luke 6:14–16 | John (various verses) | Acts 1:13 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Simon, who is called Peter | 1. Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter) | 1. Simon, whom he named Peter | Simon Peter (1:40–42) | 1. Peter |
| 2. Andrew his [Simon Peter’s] brother | 4. Andrew | 2. Andrew his [Simon Peter’s] brother | Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother (1:40) | 4. Andrew |
| 3. James the son of Zebedee | 2. James the son of Zebedee | 3. James | unnamed son of Zebedee (21:2) | 3. James |
| 4. John his [James’s] brother | 3. John the brother of James | 4. John | unnamed son of Zebedee (21:2) | 2. John |
| 5. Philip | 5. Philip | 5. Philip | Philip of Bethsaida (1:43–44) | 5. Philip |
| 6. Bartholomew | 6. Bartholomew | 6. Bartholomew | Nathanael of Cana (1:45–49; 21:2)** | 7. Bartholomew |
| 7. Thomas | 8. Thomas | 8. Thomas | Thomas called the Twin (11:16) | 6. Thomas |
| 8. Matthew the tax collector | 7. Matthew (Levi, son of Alphaeus, a tax collector, 2:14) | 7. Matthew (Levi, tax collector, 5:27) | 8. Matthew | |
| 9. James the son of Alphaeus | 9. James the son of Alphaeus | 9. James the son of Alphaeus | 9. James the son of Alphaeus | |
| 10. Thaddaeus | 10. Thaddaeus | 11. Judas the son of James | Judas (not Iscariot) (14:22) | 11. Judas the son of James |
| 11. Simon the Zealot | 11. Simon the Zealot | 10. Simon who was called the Zealot | 10. Simon the Zealot | |
| 12. Judas Iscariot | 12. Judas Iscariot | 12. Judas Iscariot | Judas the son of Simon Iscariot (6:71) | 12. Matthias replaces Judas [who had died] (Acts 1:26) |
*Others in the NT are regarded as apostles besides the Twelve, notably James the brother of Jesus (Acts 15:12–21; 1 Cor. 15:7; Gal. 1:19), Paul (Acts 14:4, 14; 1 Cor. 9:1; 15:8–9), and Barnabas (Acts 14:4, 14).
**Nathanael is probably Bartholomew, since he is closely associated with Philip. He is certainly not Levi/Matthew, who already has two names and who was from Capernaum. It is possible but unlikely that he is Thaddeus/Judas or Simon the Zealot.
John 14:26 He will teach you uses the masculine pronoun “he” instead of the neutral pronoun “it.” Many interpreters have seen this as John’s awareness of the distinct personhood of the Spirit. John follows the same usage in 15:26 and 16:13–14. That the Helper will teach the disciples all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you is an important promise regarding the disciples’ future role in writing the words of Scripture; see also 16:13–15. Jesus’ promise here is specifically to these disciples, though the Holy Spirit teaches and guides all believers (Rom. 8:14). On the work of the Trinity, see chart.
Witnesses to Jesus
| 1. John the Baptist | 5:32–36; see 1:7–8, 15, 19, 32–34; 3:26 |
| 2. Jesus’ own works | 5:36; see 10:25, 32, 37–38; 15:24 |
| 3. God the Father | 5:37–38; 8:18 |
| 4. The Scriptures, especially by Moses | 5:39, 45–47 |
| 5. Jesus himself | 3:11, 32; 8:14, 18; 18:37 |
| 6. The Spirit | 14:26; 15:26; 16:8–11, 13–14 |
| 7. The disciples, especially John | 15:27; 19:35; 21:24 |
The Work of the Trinity
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, by presenting the Father, Son, and Spirit together, all doing what no one else ever does, the Gospel of John gives us the foundation on which this doctrine is based. Observing what God says and does helps us to know him, and observing which actions are done by which members of the Godhead helps us to see which roles they play.
| Action | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give life | 5:21, 26; (6:33); 17:3 | 5:21, 25–26, 40; 6:33; 17:3 | 3:6, 8; 6:63 |
| Proclaim future | 1:33 | 13:19, 26, 36–38; 14:3, 29; 16:1–4, 16–28, 32; 20:18 | 16:13 |
| Indwell believers | 14:23 | 14:20, 23; (15:4–7); 17:23, 26 | 14:17 |
| Teach | 6:45; 7:16, 17; 8:28 | 7:14; (8:2); 8:20; 13:13–14 | 14:26 |
| Testify to Jesus | 5:32, 37; 6:27; 8:18 | 8:12–14, 18 | 15:26 |
| Glorify Jesus | 5:22–23; 8:50, 54; 13:31–32; 17:1, 22 | (1:14); 2:11; 13:31–32; 17:5, 24 | 16:14 |
Actions Common to Father and Son
| Action | Father | Son |
|---|---|---|
| Glorify the Father | 4:23; 12:28; 13:31–32 | (2:16); (9:3–4); 11:40; 12:28; 13:31–32; 14:13; 17:1, 4–5 |
| Give the Spirit | 3:34; 14:16 | (4:10–14); (7:37–39); 20:22 |
| Send the Spirit | 14:26 | 15:26; 16:7 |
Actions Common to Son and Spirit
| Action | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|
| Be given by the Father | 3:16 | (4:10–14); 14:16 |
| Be sent by the Father | 3:17; 4:34; 5:23–24, 36; 6:29, 57; 7:28–29, 33; 8:16, 26, 29, 42; 9:4; 10:36; 11:42; 12:44–45; 13:20; 15:21; 17:3, 8, 18, 23, 25; 20:21 | 14:26; 15:26 |
| Speak not from himself | (5:19); 5:30; (6:38); 7:16; 12:49–50 | 16:13 |
| Speak only what he hears | 3:32; (3:34); (5:30); 8:26, 40; 12:50; 15:15 | 16:13 |
| Convict | 3:19–20; 4:16, 18; (5:27); (8:7); 8:34, 40; 11:40; 12:7–8; 13:8 | 16:7–11 |
| Be received | 1:12 (see 1:10–11) | 7:39 (see 14:17) |
| Disclose what belongs to God | 1:18 | 16:13–14 |
John 14:27 Peace describes the absence of conflict and also the presence of blessing. Such blessing comes especially in a right relationship with God (e.g., Num. 6:24–26). See also John 15:18–19; 16:33.
John 14:28 the Father is greater than I. God the Father sends and commands. Thus he is “greater” (in authority or leadership) than the Son. However, this does not mean that Jesus is inferior to the Father, as 1:1; 10:30; and 20:28 clearly show.
The Work of the Trinity
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, by presenting the Father, Son, and Spirit together, all doing what no one else ever does, the Gospel of John gives us the foundation on which this doctrine is based. Observing what God says and does helps us to know him, and observing which actions are done by which members of the Godhead helps us to see which roles they play.
| Action | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give life | 5:21, 26; (6:33); 17:3 | 5:21, 25–26, 40; 6:33; 17:3 | 3:6, 8; 6:63 |
| Proclaim future | 1:33 | 13:19, 26, 36–38; 14:3, 29; 16:1–4, 16–28, 32; 20:18 | 16:13 |
| Indwell believers | 14:23 | 14:20, 23; (15:4–7); 17:23, 26 | 14:17 |
| Teach | 6:45; 7:16, 17; 8:28 | 7:14; (8:2); 8:20; 13:13–14 | 14:26 |
| Testify to Jesus | 5:32, 37; 6:27; 8:18 | 8:12–14, 18 | 15:26 |
| Glorify Jesus | 5:22–23; 8:50, 54; 13:31–32; 17:1, 22 | (1:14); 2:11; 13:31–32; 17:5, 24 | 16:14 |
Actions Common to Father and Son
| Action | Father | Son |
|---|---|---|
| Glorify the Father | 4:23; 12:28; 13:31–32 | (2:16); (9:3–4); 11:40; 12:28; 13:31–32; 14:13; 17:1, 4–5 |
| Give the Spirit | 3:34; 14:16 | (4:10–14); (7:37–39); 20:22 |
| Send the Spirit | 14:26 | 15:26; 16:7 |
Actions Common to Son and Spirit
| Action | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|
| Be given by the Father | 3:16 | (4:10–14); 14:16 |
| Be sent by the Father | 3:17; 4:34; 5:23–24, 36; 6:29, 57; 7:28–29, 33; 8:16, 26, 29, 42; 9:4; 10:36; 11:42; 12:44–45; 13:20; 15:21; 17:3, 8, 18, 23, 25; 20:21 | 14:26; 15:26 |
| Speak not from himself | (5:19); 5:30; (6:38); 7:16; 12:49–50 | 16:13 |
| Speak only what he hears | 3:32; (3:34); (5:30); 8:26, 40; 12:50; 15:15 | 16:13 |
| Convict | 3:19–20; 4:16, 18; (5:27); (8:7); 8:34, 40; 11:40; 12:7–8; 13:8 | 16:7–11 |
| Be received | 1:12 (see 1:10–11) | 7:39 (see 14:17) |
| Disclose what belongs to God | 1:18 | 16:13–14 |
John 14:30 The ruler of this world in its present fallen, sinful state is Satan. Satan is coming in the person of Judas and those with him (see ch. 18). has no claim. Satan cannot force Jesus to do anything. Jesus willingly submits to the suffering that is to come, out of obedience to his Father (see 14:31).
John 14:31 The transition from 14:31 to 15:1 is sometimes viewed as a “literary seam,” an indication that John’s Gospel is pieced together from different sources. More likely, John is implying that Jesus and his followers are leaving the upper room, making their way to the brook Kidron, and arriving in the Garden of Gethsemane (18:1).
Fact: The Holy Spirit
Jesus promises his disciples that the Holy Spirit will live within them, to teach them and remind them what Jesus has said (14:16–17, 26; see also 16:5–15). The Holy Spirit is also called the “Helper,” which can mean “Advocate” or “Counselor.”
John 15:1 This is the last of Jesus’ seven I am sayings in this Gospel (see note on 6:35). True contrasts Jesus with OT Israel (see previous note); Jesus is the true Israel. The vinedresser refers back to Isaiah’s first vineyard song, which pictures God tending his vineyard (Isa. 5:1–7; compare Ps. 80:8–9).
The “I Am” Statements of Jesus
| Absolute “I am” statements | 6:20; 8:24, 28, 58; 18:5 |
| Metaphorical “I am” statements | |
| 1. I am the bread of life | 6:35, 48, 51 |
| 2. I am the light of the world | 8:12; 9:5 |
| 3. I am the door of the sheep | 10:7, 9 |
| 4. I am the good shepherd | 10:11, 14 |
| 5. I am the resurrection and the life | 11:25 |
| 6. I am the way, the truth, and the life | 14:6 |
| 7. I am the true vine | 15:1 |
John 15:2 Does not bear fruit seems to indicate that the person is not a true believer (see vv. 6, 8; compare 6:66). Fruit is an image for good results coming from the life of a believer (see Matt. 13:8; compare Gal. 5:22–23). He prunes describes the painful but necessary removal of negative things in believers’ lives so that the remaining branches may bear even more fruit.
John 15:4 Abide in me means to continue in a daily, personal relationship with Jesus characterized by trust, prayer, obedience, and joy. (See note on 1 John 2:6.) And I in you probably means, “See that I abide in you.” The preposition “in” recalls OT texts regarding a future new covenant (see Ex. 25:8; 29:45; Lev. 26:11–12; Ezek. 43:9). The repeated references to fruit bearing (also John 15:5, 8) reflect God’s primary purpose in creation (Gen. 1:11–12, 22, 28) and in redemption (John 15:8, 16). The OT prophets envisioned a time when God’s people would “blossom and put forth shoots and fill the whole world with fruit” (Isa. 27:6; compare Hos. 14:4–8).
Fact: Abide in Jesus
To abide in Jesus means living in a daily, close relationship with him, characterized by trust, prayer, obedience, and joy. The Holy Spirit’s presence and activity within Christians gives evidence that they are abiding in Christ (John 8:31, 6:56, 15:4; 1 John 2:6, 27–28; 3:6).
John 15:5 nothing. Nothing of eternal value, that is, no spiritual fruit.
John 15:6 The person who does not abide in me does not have personal faith in Christ (see notes on v. 4; Ezek. 15:1–8; Heb. 6:7–8). Fire is a common symbol for divine judgment (e.g., Isa. 30:27; Matt. 3:12 and parallels; 5:22; 18:8; 25:41).
John 15:7 Two conditions are given for answered prayer: abiding in Jesus, and his words abiding in believers (thus transforming their thinking).
John 15:10–11 Obedience is all about joy. The OT prophets foresaw a great end-time rejoicing (e.g., Isa. 35:10; 51:3; 61:10; Zeph. 3:14–17). God threatened judgment if his people would not serve him “with joyfulness and gladness of heart” (Deut. 28:47–48).
Physical Items Used by Jesus to Teach Spiritual Truths
Though often misunderstood by Jesus’ hearers, these tangible metaphors explain the gospel.
| Physical Item | Spiritual Truth | References |
|---|---|---|
| Light | true knowledge and presence of God; moral purity | 1:4–5, 7–9; 3:19–21; 8:12; 9:5; 11:9–10; 12:35–36, 46; see 1 John 2:8–10 |
| Jerusalem temple | Christ’s physical body | 2:19–22 |
| Physical birth | spiritual birth: being “born again” | 1:13; 3:3–8; see 6:63; 1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1, 18 |
| Wind | the Holy Spirit | 3:8 |
| Water | the Holy Spirit within believers | 4:7–15; 7:37–39; see 1 John 5:6, 8 |
| Food | doing the will of God | 4:31–34 |
| Bread | Jesus himself, his life and death | 6:32–51, 58 |
| Flesh and blood | Jesus’ death | 6:53–56; see 1 John 1:7; 5:6, 8 |
| Door | path to eternal life in Jesus | 10:1–9 |
| Shepherd | Jesus’ self-sacrifice and care for his people | 10:11–18, 26–28; 21:15–17 |
| Vine | Jesus in relationship to his followers | 15:1–11 |
| Cup | God’s wrath toward sin | 18:11 |
| Breath | the Holy Spirit coming upon the disciples | 20:22 |
Fact: Vine
Ezekiel compares the Jerusalemites to a vine that can only be used as fuel for a fire (ch. 15). In the Bible, the people of God are often compared to a vine. Jesus describes his relationship with his followers using vine imagery in John 15:1–11.
John 15:12 Love must be the distinguishing mark of Jesus’ disciples (compare v. 13; Lev. 19:18; Mark 12:28–33).
John 15:13–14 You are my friends. In the OT, only Abraham and Moses are called friends of God (Ex. 33:11; Isa. 41:8). Jesus extends this privilege to all obedient believers.
John 15:16 You did not choose me. The disciples willingly followed Jesus when he called them. Jesus chose them, however, before they followed (see Romans 1; Ephesians 1; also John 15:19). that you should go and bear fruit. The purpose of Christ’s choosing people is not only that their sins be forgiven and they have eternal life. It is also so their lives will be fruitful in fulfilling God’s purposes.
John 15:1–17 The OT frequently uses the vineyard or vine as a symbol for Israel, God’s covenant people. Note the two “vineyard songs” in Isaiah (Isa. 5:1–7; 27:2–6). However, Israel’s failure to produce fruit resulted in divine judgment. Jesus, by contrast, is “the true vine.” His followers live in him and produce fruit.
John 15:22 They would not have been guilty of sin does not mean all sin (see Rom. 3:23), but the specific sin of rejecting God’s supreme revelation in Christ (see John 15:18, 23, 24).
John 15:25 Compare Ps. 35:19; 69:4.
John 15:26 The Helper is the Holy Spirit; see notes on 14:16–17; 14:26. whom I will send . . . who proceeds from the Father. Both the Father and the Son will send the Holy Spirit into the world in new fullness at Pentecost (see Acts 2:1–33; also note on John 7:39). When believers bear witness about Christ, the Holy Spirit works invisibly through their words. On the pronoun “he,” see note on 14:26.
The Work of the Trinity
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, by presenting the Father, Son, and Spirit together, all doing what no one else ever does, the Gospel of John gives us the foundation on which this doctrine is based. Observing what God says and does helps us to know him, and observing which actions are done by which members of the Godhead helps us to see which roles they play.
| Action | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give life | 5:21, 26; (6:33); 17:3 | 5:21, 25–26, 40; 6:33; 17:3 | 3:6, 8; 6:63 |
| Proclaim future | 1:33 | 13:19, 26, 36–38; 14:3, 29; 16:1–4, 16–28, 32; 20:18 | 16:13 |
| Indwell believers | 14:23 | 14:20, 23; (15:4–7); 17:23, 26 | 14:17 |
| Teach | 6:45; 7:16, 17; 8:28 | 7:14; (8:2); 8:20; 13:13–14 | 14:26 |
| Testify to Jesus | 5:32, 37; 6:27; 8:18 | 8:12–14, 18 | 15:26 |
| Glorify Jesus | 5:22–23; 8:50, 54; 13:31–32; 17:1, 22 | (1:14); 2:11; 13:31–32; 17:5, 24 | 16:14 |
Actions Common to Father and Son
| Action | Father | Son |
|---|---|---|
| Glorify the Father | 4:23; 12:28; 13:31–32 | (2:16); (9:3–4); 11:40; 12:28; 13:31–32; 14:13; 17:1, 4–5 |
| Give the Spirit | 3:34; 14:16 | (4:10–14); (7:37–39); 20:22 |
| Send the Spirit | 14:26 | 15:26; 16:7 |
Actions Common to Son and Spirit
| Action | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|
| Be given by the Father | 3:16 | (4:10–14); 14:16 |
| Be sent by the Father | 3:17; 4:34; 5:23–24, 36; 6:29, 57; 7:28–29, 33; 8:16, 26, 29, 42; 9:4; 10:36; 11:42; 12:44–45; 13:20; 15:21; 17:3, 8, 18, 23, 25; 20:21 | 14:26; 15:26 |
| Speak not from himself | (5:19); 5:30; (6:38); 7:16; 12:49–50 | 16:13 |
| Speak only what he hears | 3:32; (3:34); (5:30); 8:26, 40; 12:50; 15:15 | 16:13 |
| Convict | 3:19–20; 4:16, 18; (5:27); (8:7); 8:34, 40; 11:40; 12:7–8; 13:8 | 16:7–11 |
| Be received | 1:12 (see 1:10–11) | 7:39 (see 14:17) |
| Disclose what belongs to God | 1:18 | 16:13–14 |
Witnesses to Jesus
| 1. John the Baptist | 5:32–36; see 1:7–8, 15, 19, 32–34; 3:26 |
| 2. Jesus’ own works | 5:36; see 10:25, 32, 37–38; 15:24 |
| 3. God the Father | 5:37–38; 8:18 |
| 4. The Scriptures, especially by Moses | 5:39, 45–47 |
| 5. Jesus himself | 3:11, 32; 8:14, 18; 18:37 |
| 6. The Spirit | 14:26; 15:26; 16:8–11, 13–14 |
| 7. The disciples, especially John | 15:27; 19:35; 21:24 |
John 16:2 whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. Not all religions are good. In fact, some teach that their followers are doing good when they kill true followers of the Son of God. (E.g., Acts 8:1–3.)
John 16:10 because I go to the Father. Jesus will no longer be in the world to teach about righteousness, but the Holy Spirit will come to continue that function, through instruction of believers (v. 13) and through the words of those believers as they bear witness to the gospel.
John 16:11 because the ruler of this world is judged. Satan; see note on 12:31.
John 16:13 On the Spirit of truth, see note on 14:16–17. The Spirit’s ministry of guiding Jesus’ followers into all the truth is a promise especially for these 11 disciples. It applies to their work of writing or overseeing the writing of the NT books. The promise also has a broader application to all believers (Rom. 8:14; Gal. 5:18). The ability to declare the things that are to come gives evidence of the full deity of the Holy Spirit (see Isa. 48:14).
Witnesses to Jesus
| 1. John the Baptist | 5:32–36; see 1:7–8, 15, 19, 32–34; 3:26 |
| 2. Jesus’ own works | 5:36; see 10:25, 32, 37–38; 15:24 |
| 3. God the Father | 5:37–38; 8:18 |
| 4. The Scriptures, especially by Moses | 5:39, 45–47 |
| 5. Jesus himself | 3:11, 32; 8:14, 18; 18:37 |
| 6. The Spirit | 14:26; 15:26; 16:8–11, 13–14 |
| 7. The disciples, especially John | 15:27; 19:35; 21:24 |
Fact: The Holy Spirit
Jesus promises his disciples that the Holy Spirit will live within them, to teach them and remind them what Jesus has said (14:16–17, 26; see also 16:5–15). The Holy Spirit is also called the “Helper,” which can mean “Advocate” or “Counselor.”
John 16:16–19 A little while . . . again a little while. The first reference is plainly to the brief period between the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The second reference is to the resurrection appearances. The phrase occurs four other times in John (see 7:33; 12:35; 13:33; 14:19).
John 16:23 In that day (that is, after Jesus’ resurrection) you will ask nothing of me probably means Jesus’ disciples will not have to ask him questions about the meaning of his death and resurrection. They will understand through the Holy Spirit’s ministry (v. 13).
John 16:24 Until now you have asked nothing in my name. While Jesus was on earth the disciples had not prayed to the Father in the name of Jesus. But now he was saying that they should do so. Regarding the meaning of praying “in Jesus’ name,” see notes on 1:12–13; 14:13.
John 16:25 The hour is coming refers to the time after Jesus’ resurrection (see Luke 24:27; Acts 1:3).
John 16:28 Now I am leaving the world and going to the Father most naturally refers to his ascension (Luke 24:50–51; Acts 1:3, 9).
John 16:32 Will be scattered, each to his own home probably echoes Zech. 13:7 (quoted in Matt. 26:31 and parallels; compare Matt. 26:56b). The shepherd will be deserted by his sheep.
The Work of the Trinity
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, by presenting the Father, Son, and Spirit together, all doing what no one else ever does, the Gospel of John gives us the foundation on which this doctrine is based. Observing what God says and does helps us to know him, and observing which actions are done by which members of the Godhead helps us to see which roles they play.
| Action | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give life | 5:21, 26; (6:33); 17:3 | 5:21, 25–26, 40; 6:33; 17:3 | 3:6, 8; 6:63 |
| Proclaim future | 1:33 | 13:19, 26, 36–38; 14:3, 29; 16:1–4, 16–28, 32; 20:18 | 16:13 |
| Indwell believers | 14:23 | 14:20, 23; (15:4–7); 17:23, 26 | 14:17 |
| Teach | 6:45; 7:16, 17; 8:28 | 7:14; (8:2); 8:20; 13:13–14 | 14:26 |
| Testify to Jesus | 5:32, 37; 6:27; 8:18 | 8:12–14, 18 | 15:26 |
| Glorify Jesus | 5:22–23; 8:50, 54; 13:31–32; 17:1, 22 | (1:14); 2:11; 13:31–32; 17:5, 24 | 16:14 |
Actions Common to Father and Son
| Action | Father | Son |
|---|---|---|
| Glorify the Father | 4:23; 12:28; 13:31–32 | (2:16); (9:3–4); 11:40; 12:28; 13:31–32; 14:13; 17:1, 4–5 |
| Give the Spirit | 3:34; 14:16 | (4:10–14); (7:37–39); 20:22 |
| Send the Spirit | 14:26 | 15:26; 16:7 |
Actions Common to Son and Spirit
| Action | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|
| Be given by the Father | 3:16 | (4:10–14); 14:16 |
| Be sent by the Father | 3:17; 4:34; 5:23–24, 36; 6:29, 57; 7:28–29, 33; 8:16, 26, 29, 42; 9:4; 10:36; 11:42; 12:44–45; 13:20; 15:21; 17:3, 8, 18, 23, 25; 20:21 | 14:26; 15:26 |
| Speak not from himself | (5:19); 5:30; (6:38); 7:16; 12:49–50 | 16:13 |
| Speak only what he hears | 3:32; (3:34); (5:30); 8:26, 40; 12:50; 15:15 | 16:13 |
| Convict | 3:19–20; 4:16, 18; (5:27); (8:7); 8:34, 40; 11:40; 12:7–8; 13:8 | 16:7–11 |
| Be received | 1:12 (see 1:10–11) | 7:39 (see 14:17) |
| Disclose what belongs to God | 1:18 | 16:13–14 |
Fact: The Farewell Discourse
In 13:31–16:33, Jesus prepares his disciples for his departure from them. This is often called the Farewell Discourse. Jesus shows his disciples that his death and resurrection will bring them blessing.
Fact: Praying in Jesus’ name
Praying in Jesus’ name (16:23; compare 14:13) is not about whether or not the prayer ends with the exact words “in Jesus’ name.” It means acknowledging that Jesus is our advocate or mediator before God the Father (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25; 1 John 2:1).
John 17:1 Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven, a customary posture in prayer (compare Ps. 123:1). the hour has come. See note on John 2:4. The opening petition glorify your Son implies a claim to deity, since God will not give his glory to another (see Isa. 42:8; 48:11).
John 17:2 The Father’s granting of authority over all flesh to Jesus (compare 5:27) marks the start of a new era (see Isa. 9:6–7; Dan. 7:13–14; see also Matt. 11:27; 28:18). “All flesh” means the whole human race.
John 17:2–3 That they know you implies an intimate relationship with God as a person. the only true God. See Deut. 6:4; John 5:44. Jesus, in turn, is the “one-of-a-kind” Son sent by the Father (see 1:14, 18; 3:16, 18).
John 17:5 Jesus again claims that he existed before the world existed (see 1:1, 14; 3:13; 6:62; 8:58; 16:28; 17:24). The universe is not eternal but was created by God. Jesus speaks of a sharing of glory between the Father and the Son prior to creation, implying that this has been the case from all eternity.
John 17:6 Jesus’ revelation of God’s name includes making known the Father’s works and words (see 1:18; 8:19, 27; 10:38; 12:45; 14:9–11).
John 17:9 Those whom you have given me are those who have believed or who would come to believe in Christ (see vv. 2, 6, 12; also 6:37, 39; 10:29).
John 17:11 I am no longer in the world. See note on 16:28. keep them. From denying Christ. Holy Father. This is the only time in the NT that this form of address refers to God the Father (see Lev. 11:44; compare Ps. 71:22; 111:9; Isa. 6:3). that they may be one, even as we are one. There should be a unity among believers that reflects the unity between God the Father and God the Son.
John 17:12 your name. Jesus came in God the Father’s authority and represented the Father’s entire character. son of destruction. Judas.
John 17:14 your word. Jesus’ own life and teachings, which are the revelation of himself as the Word of God (1:1, 14).
John 17:15 keep them. The central request of the prayer is repeated (see v. 11). from the evil one. That is, Satan. But the Greek can also mean “from evil” (see ESV footnote). See 1 John 5:19.
John 17:16 Those who believe in Christ are not of the world (see 3:3–8). They have different desires, different goals, and a different God.
John 17:17 Sanctify them. The sanctification of Christians is a lifelong process. It involves separation from evil and growth in moral purity in attitudes, thoughts, and actions. This occurs in the truth, that is, as Christians believe, think, and live according to “the truth” in relation to God, themselves, and the world. your word is truth. God’s Word (the Bible) is truth itself and is the standard against which everything else must be tested.
John 17:18 I have sent them into the world. Jesus actually declares that he is sending them in 20:21. He repeats that commission at his ascension (Matt. 28:19–20).
John 17:21 that they may all be one. See v. 11 and note; v. 22. In us refers to the believer’s spiritual union with God and to the personal fellowship resulting from that union.
John 17:22 Glory probably refers to the excellence of God’s character as shown in Jesus’ life (see 1:14). given to them. Christians reflect God’s excellency in their own lives, in imitation of Christ.
John 17:24 The whole purpose of salvation is communicated in this verse. It begins now, but its completion comes after this life. See includes the idea of entering into and experiencing something. You loved me before the foundation of the world implies that love and interaction among the members of the Trinity has existed eternally (compare v. 5).
John 13:1–17:26 Jesus prepares his new messianic community (the remaining 11 apostles) for the time following his resurrection and return to the Father. The community is cleansed literally and symbolically through the footwashing (13:1–17), and then figuratively through the removal of the betrayer (13:18–30). The Farewell Discourse (13:31–16:33) contains Jesus’ final instructions to his followers. The discourse, recorded only in John’s Gospel, concludes with Jesus’ final prayer (ch. 17).
John 17:26 your name. See note on 5:43. I in them. Compare 14:20; 17:23. God lived in the midst of Israel in the tabernacle (Ex. 40:34), and he frequently assured his people that he was in their midst (Ex. 29:45–46; Deut. 23:14).
Harmony of the Events of Holy Week
| Day | Event | Matthew | Mark | Luke | John |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Friday/Saturday | Jesus arrives in Bethany | 12:1 | |||
| Mary anoints Jesus | 12:2–8 | ||||
| Crowd comes to see Jesus | 12:9–11 | ||||
| Sunday | Triumphal entry into Jerusalem | 21:1–11 | 11:1–10 | 19:28–44 | 12:12–18 |
| Some Greeks seek Jesus | 12:20–36 | ||||
| Jesus weeps over Jerusalem | 19:41 | ||||
| Enters temple | 11:11 | ||||
| Returns to Bethany | 21:17 | 11:11 | |||
| Monday | Jesus curses the fig tree | 21:18–19 | 11:12–14 | ||
| Clears the temple | 21:12–13 | 11:15–17 | 19:45–46 | ||
| Returns to Bethany with the Twelve | 11:19 | ||||
| Tuesday | Disciples see the withered fig tree on the return to Jerusalem | 21:20–22 | 11:20–21 | ||
| Temple controversies in Jerusalem | 21:23–23:39 | 11:27–12:44 | 20:1–21:4 | ||
| Olivet Discourse on the return to Bethany | 24:1–25:46 | 13:1–37 | 21:5–36 | ||
| Wednesday | Jesus continues daily teaching in the temple | 21:37–38 | |||
| Sanhedrin plots to kill Jesus | 26:3–5 | 14:1–2 | 22:1–2 | ||
| Wednesday/Thursday | Preparations for the Passover | 26:17–19 | 14:12–16 | 22:7–13 | |
| Thursday | Passover meal/Last Supper | 26:20–35 | 14:17–26 | 22:14–30 | |
| Upper Room Discourse | 13:1–17:26 | ||||
| Jesus prays in Gethsemane | 26:36–46 | 14:32–42 | 22:39–46 | ||
| Friday | Betrayal and arrest (after midnight?) | 26:47–56 | 14:43–52 | 22:47–53 | 18:2–12 |
| Jewish trial: | |||||
| —before Annas | 18:13–24 | ||||
| —before Caiaphas and part of the Sanhedrin | 26:57–75 | 14:53–72 | 22:54–65 | 18:19–24 | |
| —before full Sanhedrin (after sunrise?) | 27:1–2 | 15:1 | 22:66–71 | ||
| Roman trials: | |||||
| —before Pilate | 27:2–14 | 15:2–5 | 23:1–5 | ||
| —before Herod | 23:6–12 | ||||
| —before Pilate | 27:15–26 | 15:6–15 | 23:13–25 | 18:28–19:16 | |
| Crucifixion (approx. 9:00 A.M.to 3:00 P.M.) | 27:27–54 | 15:16–39 | 23:26–49 | 19:16–37 | |
| Burial (evening) | 27:57–61 | 15:42–47 | 23:50–54 | 19:38–42 | |
| Sunday | Empty-tomb witnesses | 28:1–8 | 16:1–8 | 24:1–12 | |
| Resurrection appearances | 28:9–20 | 16:9–20 | 24:13–53 | 20:1–21:25 |
The Work of the Trinity
Though the word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, by presenting the Father, Son, and Spirit together, all doing what no one else ever does, the Gospel of John gives us the foundation on which this doctrine is based. Observing what God says and does helps us to know him, and observing which actions are done by which members of the Godhead helps us to see which roles they play.
| Action | Father | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Give life | 5:21, 26; (6:33); 17:3 | 5:21, 25–26, 40; 6:33; 17:3 | 3:6, 8; 6:63 |
| Proclaim future | 1:33 | 13:19, 26, 36–38; 14:3, 29; 16:1–4, 16–28, 32; 20:18 | 16:13 |
| Indwell believers | 14:23 | 14:20, 23; (15:4–7); 17:23, 26 | 14:17 |
| Teach | 6:45; 7:16, 17; 8:28 | 7:14; (8:2); 8:20; 13:13–14 | 14:26 |
| Testify to Jesus | 5:32, 37; 6:27; 8:18 | 8:12–14, 18 | 15:26 |
| Glorify Jesus | 5:22–23; 8:50, 54; 13:31–32; 17:1, 22 | (1:14); 2:11; 13:31–32; 17:5, 24 | 16:14 |
Actions Common to Father and Son
| Action | Father | Son |
|---|---|---|
| Glorify the Father | 4:23; 12:28; 13:31–32 | (2:16); (9:3–4); 11:40; 12:28; 13:31–32; 14:13; 17:1, 4–5 |
| Give the Spirit | 3:34; 14:16 | (4:10–14); (7:37–39); 20:22 |
| Send the Spirit | 14:26 | 15:26; 16:7 |
Actions Common to Son and Spirit
| Action | Son | Spirit |
|---|---|---|
| Be given by the Father | 3:16 | (4:10–14); 14:16 |
| Be sent by the Father | 3:17; 4:34; 5:23–24, 36; 6:29, 57; 7:28–29, 33; 8:16, 26, 29, 42; 9:4; 10:36; 11:42; 12:44–45; 13:20; 15:21; 17:3, 8, 18, 23, 25; 20:21 | 14:26; 15:26 |
| Speak not from himself | (5:19); 5:30; (6:38); 7:16; 12:49–50 | 16:13 |
| Speak only what he hears | 3:32; (3:34); (5:30); 8:26, 40; 12:50; 15:15 | 16:13 |
| Convict | 3:19–20; 4:16, 18; (5:27); (8:7); 8:34, 40; 11:40; 12:7–8; 13:8 | 16:7–11 |
| Be received | 1:12 (see 1:10–11) | 7:39 (see 14:17) |
| Disclose what belongs to God | 1:18 | 16:13–14 |
The High Priestly Prayer
| The Father Gave the Son . . . | John 17 |
|---|---|
| authority to give eternal life | v. 2 |
| people out of this world | vv. 2, 6, 9, 24 |
| work to accomplish | v. 4 |
| words | v. 8 |
| his name | vv. 11, 12 |
| glory | vv. 22, 24 |
| The Son Gives Believers . . . | John 17 |
|---|---|
| eternal life | v. 2 |
| the Father’s word | vv. 8, 14 |
| manifestation of the Father’s name | vv. 6, 26 |
| glory | v. 22 |
| The Son Asks the Father to . . . | John 17 |
|---|---|
| glorify him | vv. 1, 5 |
| keep believers in the Father’s name | v. 11 |
| keep believers from the evil one | v. 15 |
| sanctify believers in the truth | v. 17 |
| make believers one | v. 21 |
| Jesus’ Followers and the World | John 17 |
|---|---|
| they are sent into the world | v. 18 |
| they are in the world | v. 11 |
| they are not of the world | v. 16 |
| the world has hated them | v. 14 |
| their unity with each other and union with God may cause the world to believe the Father sent the Son | v. 21 |
S4:261 John 14-17
Listen NowDive Deeper | John 14-17
In these chapters, Jesus is speaking to his disciples, conveying what is to come regarding his death and resurrection. He has been their wise rabbi, teaching them the truth of eternal life and how to abide in him, but now it is time for Jesus to go to the Father. The disciples are full of fear and confusion as Jesus tells them that this is good and in fulfillment of the Scriptures. Yet, Jesus promises to give them another "Helper" to be with them (and us!)—the Holy Spirit.
This is good news! Jesus promises not to leave us as orphans in this troublesome world (John 14:18) but he has given us his Spirit to dwell IN us. The Holy Spirit is here to guide and remind us of who Jesus is and the life we have in him when we believe.
I remember saying to my mom many years ago that I was jealous of people from the Bible who heard from God—Abraham, Moses, David, etc. She sat there a moment, contemplating, before wisely saying, "I'm not jealous. We have the Holy Spirit. I bet they would have wanted what we have now." What truth! We have the living God INSIDE of us!
In John 14:16, the Holy Spirit is translated as "Helper." The Greek word paraclete can be translated as "comforter, advocate, counselor." Just as Jesus could comfort and strengthen his disciples, we can be comforted and strengthened by his Spirit who dwells within us. (John 15:26). The Holy Spirit's job is to teach us and remind us of who Jesus is, what he sacrificed for our redemption, and about his life, death, and resurrection. The Holy Spirit will also convict us of sin, righteousness, judgment, and truth. The Holy Spirit is called the "Spirit of truth" (John 15:26, 16:13).
Our job is to be obedient to the Holy Spirit as the Spirit points us back to Jesus. Do not expect morality or truth to come from the world, but rather seek THE ONE truth by abiding in and through God's Word (John 15:5, 17:17).
This month's memory verse
"I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
– John 15:5
Discussion Questions
1. Don't quench the Spirit. Are you making space for the Holy Spirit to lead you in truth by abiding in the Word and incorporating other disciplines? This can look like daily Scripture reading, Sabbath, fasting, silence, and solitude, among many other spiritual practices.
2. When you meet with the opposition of the world versus the Holy Spirit, do you act based on what the world will deem as acceptable, or what is right and true in the eyes of God?
3. When you are experiencing confusing emotions, do you analyze your emotions through the lens of Scripture and what God says is true? Or do you allow the world to dictate your emotions?
4. If you don't hear or feel a push or nudge from the Holy Spirit, it might be possible that you have your hand over the Holy Spirit's proverbial mouth or your fingers stuck in your own ears. If you struggle to hear from the Holy Spirit, remember this, you recognize a voice that is familiar to you far more easily than a voice that is unfamiliar. By spending time in God's Word and knowing his character, you will better know the Holy Spirit. How can you realign your priorities to give your first fruits of time and attention to God?