John 14:14
“If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.”
John 14:14 (KJV) states: This verse is part of a larger conversation between Jesus and His disciples, commonly known as the “Farewell Discourse.” In this discourse, Jesus addresses His impending departure from the world and reassures His disciples of His continued presence and the power of prayer.
Here are a few key points to consider when studying John 14:14:
- The Power of Prayer:Jesus emphasizes the importance and efficacy of prayer. He assures His disciples that if they ask anything in His name, He will do it. This statement reveals the intimacy of the relationship between Jesus and His followers and the privilege of approaching God the Father through Jesus.
- Praying in Jesus’ Name:Praying “in Jesus’ name” means to pray with His authority and according to His will. It involves aligning our desires and requests with the character, purposes, and teachings of Jesus. By praying in His name, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and our submission to His lordship.
- Relationship with Jesus:The context of this verse highlights the significance of a personal relationship with Jesus. As believers, we have access to the Father through the Son. Jesus is the mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5), and through Him, we can confidently approach God in prayer (Hebrews 4:16).
- God’s Will:While Jesus promises to answer prayer, it is essential to remember that His response is conditioned by the alignment of our requests with God’s will. In other words, when we pray in Jesus’ name, we are seeking God’s purposes and submitting to His wisdom and sovereignty.
- Discipleship and Obedience:The promise of answered prayer is given to Jesus’ disciples. In the broader context of the Farewell Discourse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of obedience and abiding in Him (John 14:15-23). A life characterized by discipleship and obedience strengthens our connection to Christ and increases the effectiveness of our prayers.
- Relationship between Love and Obedience:In the preceding verses (John 14:12-13), Jesus links answered prayer to love and obedience. He says that those who believe in Him will do the works He does and even greater works. This demonstration of faith and obedience is motivated by love for Jesus. Thus, prayer flows from a loving and obedient relationship with Him.
In conclusion, John 14:14 teaches us about the power and privilege of prayer offered in Jesus’ name. It highlights the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus, aligning our prayers with His will, and living lives of discipleship and obedience. Through this verse, Jesus invites His followers to approach God with confidence, knowing that He hears and answers their prayers according to His perfect wisdom and timing.

