A Quick Look at Chapter 14 of the Gospel of John

We will be studying John 15 throughout this term, but before we begin, let us glance at the chapter before. As we familiarize ourselves with the setting, we will at the same time gain insight into how Jesus teaches His disciples.

During the Passover meal, Jesus had explained to His disciples plainly that He would be going away.

Three years previously, He had chosen the Twelve, and then He walked with them everyday. Jesus had invested into their lives, each and every one, by instructing them in the ways of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus had utilized several methods while He taught; one of His favorite ways was using objects or instances from everyday life. He had used something they could touch to illustrate something they could not fathom. Many times, the disciples were confused by a teaching, and they would ask for further clarification. Jesus would patiently accommodate them.

Upon review of the Gospel of John 14, we read that Jesus advises the ones closest to Him that He is leaving them, and that they will not see Him anymore. But then He says, "A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also." And, "I am going away and coming back to you." And, "If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I am going to the Father."

It is no wonder that His disciples are very troubled. They just do not -- they cannot -- understand.

It is interesting to note that when Jesus explained Himself forthrightly, His disciples often had a very difficult time understanding what He meant. Jesus was able to discern His students' capacities, and so He would often alternate His technique and teach in metaphors, parables, or analogies.

"If you cannot comprehend this way, then try to grasp it another way," is what the Lord Jesus seemed to be saying to them.

And so, we still need the interpretation of the idea, "I will be going away from you, but I will never leave you," two seemingly contrary ideas. No wonder the disciples were puzzled. Emotionally, they did not want to hear the truth. The daunting nearness of Jesus's departure meant sadness, separation, and loss -- which is all they could think about.

What does Jesus mean?

Jesus told the disciples that the Father would send the Holy Spirit to them in the Name of Jesus. The Holy Spirit would be with them always and would be their Teacher and Comforter. The Holy Spirit was going to trade places with Jesus in the lives of the disciples, and though they did not understand it at the time, it was very Good News!

May each one of us acknowledge and experience the comfort of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord give us grace to read His Word, and discern His meaning as we study.

Love, Karen