John 14:22
In this verse, we find a conversation taking place between Jesus and one of His disciples named Judas, not to be confused with Judas Iscariot, the one who would later betray Jesus. Judas, also known as Thaddeus or Lebbaeus, asks Jesus a question about how He plans to manifest Himself to the disciples but not to the world.
This verse is part of a larger conversation Jesus had with His disciples in the Upper Room, where He shared important teachings before His crucifixion. In John 14, Jesus comforts His disciples by assuring them of His presence even though He will soon leave them physically. He tells them that He is going to prepare a place for them in His Father’s house and promises to come back to take them to be with Him (John 14:1-3).
In response to Judas’ question, Jesus goes on to explain further in the following verses. Let’s read John 14:23-24 (KJV) for context:
“Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.”
Jesus explains that those who love Him will keep His words, and as a result, both He and the Father will come to dwell with them. The manifestation Jesus speaks of is a spiritual presence that occurs when individuals have a loving relationship with Him and follow His teachings. This manifestation is not limited to the physical world but is experienced by those who love and obey Jesus.
It’s important to note that Jesus’ manifestation to the world happened through His incarnation, ministry, death, and resurrection, which were witnessed by many. However, the particular manifestation that He refers to in this passage is a spiritual one experienced by those who love and obey Him.
This passage emphasizes the importance of love and obedience as a response to Jesus’ teachings. Those who truly love Jesus will keep His commandments and experience the ongoing presence of both Jesus and the Father through the Holy Spirit.
