What does John 14:15 mean?

Explanation

In the Gospel of John, chapter 14, verse 15 ("If ye love me, keep my commandments."), Jesus is addressing His disciples during what is known as the Farewell Discourse.

In this verse, Jesus is linking love with obedience, suggesting that true affection for Him will be manifested in the keeping of His teachings.

The commandments referred to are not just the Mosaic Law, but more specifically the instructions and principles He himself taught.

This connection between love and obedience is foundational for understanding the relationship Jesus calls His followers to maintain with Him.

Historical Context

The book of John was written around the end of the first century A.D.

This was a time when early Christians were facing both internal and external challenges, such as persecution from the Roman Empire and doctrinal disagreements within the church.

John's Gospel addresses these concerns by emphasizing Jesus' divine nature and the importance of faith in Him.

The Farewell Discourse, which spans chapters 13 through 17, occurs during the Last Supper, just before Jesus is arrested and crucified.

In this intimate setting, He gives His final teachings and comforts His disciples, preparing them for His impending departure.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, John 14:15 has been interpreted in several ways:

• Traditional Christian: Most Christian traditions view this verse as highlighting the importance of authentic faith that expresses itself through actions, specifically the keeping of Christ's commandments as the demonstration of love for Him.
• Calvinist: In Calvinism, this verse might be seen as evidence of the perseverance of the saints; those who truly love Christ will obey His commands, and their actions are evidences of their salvation.
• Catholic: The Catholic tradition often emphasizes the necessary alignment of faith and works, loving Jesus inherently involves active participation in His commandments and the sacraments.
• Liberal theology: Some liberal theologians may read this verse as pointing to an ethical lifestyle rather than a strict set of doctrinal rules, interpreting "commandments" in a more metaphorical sense.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can be applied to daily life in several ways:

• Ethical Living: Individuals may reflect on their ethical decisions and actions, ensuring they align with the teachings of Jesus.
• Discipleship: Believers might ask how they can better follow Jesus' teachings and grow in their spiritual walk and dedication.
• Love as Action: People can consider love as being more than a feeling; it involves action and can be shown by how they adhere to Jesus' guidance.
• Community: Within Christian communities, this encourages accountability and support for each other to live out the commandments of Christ.

Cross-References

• John 15:10: "If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love."
• 1 John 5:3: "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."
• John 14:21: "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him."
• James 2:17: "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the word for "love" used here is "ἀγαπάω" (agapaō), which signifies a selfless, sacrificial love that goes beyond emotions to willful devotion.

The term for "keep" is "τηρέω" (tēreō), which means to watch over or guard, suggesting a vigilant observance of Jesus' commandments.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of linking love with obedience is not unique to Christianity.

In Judaism, for instance, the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) calls the Israelites to love God and keep His commandments.

In other ancient myths and religions, obedience to the gods often stemmed from fear or compulsion rather than love.

The Christian emphasis on love as the basis for obedience offers a distinctive perspective where the divine relationship is characterized by affection and volition rather than coercion or fear.

Scientific Perspectives

While John 14:15 does not directly engage with scientific claims, modern psychology does offer insights into human behavior that relate to this verse.

The concepts of intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation come to mind; Jesus seems to be advocating for an intrinsic motivation (love) to follow His commandments, as opposed to extrinsic motives such as fear of punishment or desire for reward.

This suggests a deeper, more internalized adherence to moral and ethical standards, which psychological research often correlates to more consistent and long-lasting behavior.

Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary: Henry suggests that the obedience mentioned in the verse is an evidence of our love for Jesus and that keeping Christ's commandments should not feel burdensome to believers because love makes duties pleasant.
• Benson Commentary: Benson emphasizes that the test of love to Christ is not merely professed but practical, and keeping the commandments of Jesus proves the sincerity of affection for Him.
• Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers: Ellicott notes the simplicity and depth of the verse.

It is simple in its conditional statement that love for Christ results in obedience, and profound in its implications for the believer’s relationship with Jesus.

These commentaries often point to the holistic nature of faith in Jesus, suggesting that love for Him can be gauged by a person's commitment to his teachings and lifestyle.