John 14:15-31

The Central Idea of the Text is that Jesus reveals that those who love Him will obey Him, just as He loves and obeys the Father (John 14:15, 21, 23-24, 31). Jesus was leaving His disciples, but He was not leaving them defenseless.  He would request the Father to send the Holy Spirit in His place to help the disciples continue in His will (John 14:16-18).  The disciples would see Jesus after His resurrection, and this would prove Jesus’ words that He and the Father are closely united (John 14:19-20).  Jesus reiterated that those who love Him will keep His commandments (John 14:21).  Judas (not Iscariot) was confused that Jesus would not disclose Himself to the world (John 14:22), most likely because he understood Messiah would be a public figure (see Matt. 24:30).  It appears Jesus did not answer Judas’ question, but stayed on course concerning loving-obedience and the coming ministry role of the Holy Spirit (John 14:23-26).  Jesus provided relational peace with God (John 14:27; cf. Rom. 5:1), which gives mental peace (Phil. 4:7).  Jesus reiterated that He was going back to the Father (John 14:28a; cf. John 13:33; 14:1-3), but their lack of love kept them from rejoicing over this news (John 14:28b).  Jesus explained that His prophetic words—after they came to pass—would strengthen their faith (John 14:29).  Satan’s powerful forces were marshalled against Jesus to attack and crucify Him; however, Jesus declared that Satan had no legal claim on Him (John 14:30).  Lastly, the world would know Jesus loved the Father because of His obedience to Him (John 14:31).