What does John 14:21 mean?

Explanation

John 14:21 expresses a relationship between keeping commandments, love for Jesus, and being loved by the Father.

It suggests that obedience to Jesus’ teachings is a manifestation of genuine love for Him.

Additionally, it conveys a promise that Jesus will reveal Himself to those who love Him through such obedience, implying an intimate relationship between the believer and the divine.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the Farewell Discourse (John 14-17), which takes place during the Last Supper before Jesus' crucifixion.

During that time, Jesus was preparing His disciples for His impending departure and giving them instructions and comfort.

The promise of self-disclosure by Jesus must be understood within the historical context in which the significance of commandment-keeping was a measure of religious devotion.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be understood in different ways:

• Traditional Christian theology sees it as emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's will as evidence of love for Jesus.
• Catholicism may view this verse as supporting the necessity of good works in concert with faith for salvation.
• Reformed theology would focus on the transformative power of grace that enables believers to keep the commandments out of love rather than obligation.
• Liberation theology might draw attention to Jesus' commandments as directives for social justice and loving action towards the marginalized.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse invites individuals to self-reflect on their commitment to living according to Jesus’ teachings.

It encourages believers to demonstrate their love for Jesus through actions and ethical living.

It also calls for an intimate relationship with God that goes beyond mere observance of rules to a deeper, transformational experience.

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."
• James 2:18: "Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text include:

• "Commandments" (ἐντολὰς, entolas): This word can refer to commandments or precepts given by a superior authority, and in this context, the teachings of Jesus.
• "Keepeth" (τηρῶν, tērōn): Implies not just observing the commandments but actively guarding and maintaining them.
• "Loveth" (αγαπᾷ, agapa): This term for love is one of selfless, sacrificial care and willingness to prioritize the beloved.
• "Manifest" (ἐμφανίσω, emphanisō): To reveal, to make visible or known what has been hidden or unknown.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various cultural and religious traditions, the concept of keeping divine laws or commandments as a demonstration of faithfulness or love is prominent.

For instance, in Judaism, observance of the Torah is seen as central to one’s relationship with God.

In Islam, adherence to the Five Pillars and the Quran's commandments is a reflection of a Muslim’s devotion to Allah.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with scientific inquiry, as it speaks more to personal beliefs, love, and spiritual disciplines rather than empirical evidence.

However, modern psychology could explore the relationship between adherence to moral or ethical laws and psychological well-being.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer a range of interpretations:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes that true love for Jesus results in a watchful observance of his commandments and that by doing so, believers enjoy special manifestations of divine love.
• The MacArthur Study Bible notes indicate that the keeping of Christ's commandments should be understood as the evidence of love for Him, not the means to earn His love.
• The New Bible Commentary suggests that Jesus' manifestation to those who love Him refers to His post-resurrection appearances to the disciples and also to His ongoing presence through the Holy Spirit.