John 14.15-31 — Defining the Relationship

Jesus is defining and describing what a relationship with God is like. It goes in both directions. What is asked of us is to fill ourselves with God’s being and his love so that our actions and loves conform to his. What is offered to us is God’s presence inside of us now and always. This presence of the truth of God inside of us is not anything that people who don’t belong to God have any access to or any understanding of. Our life, and the life of Jesus, will be spiritually entwined, so that he is in us, and we are in him in mutual fellowship.

Truth, love, obedience, service, worship, and relationship all intersect as people and God are reconciled to each other and God comes to make his permanent home in individuals. This offer is open to all. It’s not just for Jews, just for the prophets, kings, or holy ones. It’s also for the poor, the lost, the broken, children, women, any age, and any ethnicity. Love for God and obedience to him is the key to spiritual manifestation. Max Lucado says, “God wants to be your dwelling place. He has no interest in being a weekend getaway or a Sunday bungalow or a summer cottage. Don’t consider using God as a vacation cabin or an eventual retirement home. He wants you under his roof now and always. He wants to be your mailing address, your point of reference; he wants to be your home.”

Jesus then ends (this section) with: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” This is Christ’s parting blessing, on the eve of his death and their darkest fears and anxieties. His peace isn’t going to change the circumstances, but allows them to rest in his presence with them as they go through it. This, obviously, is not anything to which “the world” has access.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *