A study of John 14:25-31 reveals the name and function of the Holy Spirit, the peace that Jesus gives, and the coming ruler of this world.
A study of John 14:25-31 reveals the name and function of the Holy Spirit.
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. (ESV, John 14:26)
Jesus ends John 14 by reviewing things he said earlier. Likely to emphasize their importance. First, he repeats what he said in V.15. Only this time he uses two descriptive words when he says the Helper and Holy Spirit will come. The Greek word for “Helper” is Parakletos, which means one called alongside to help and speak on another person’s behalf. It also means advocate, counselor, comforter, and intercessor.
The Greek word for Holy Spirit is pneuma, which means spirit, breath, and wind, depending on the context. John uses Paraklētos to highlight the Spirit’s personal ministry after Christ’s departure. And that is to teach them in their continued training as disciples and recall what they have learned as they minister in the name of Jesus. And the rest of the New Testament uses Pneuma. The difference between the two is that pneuma identifies his person and paraklētos, his office or ministry. But other New Testament scripture passages describe other functions of the Holy Spirit as well. It includes: comforting, teaching, convicting of sin, and illuminating God’s truth.
A study of John 14:25-31 reveals the peace that Jesus gives.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. (ESV, John 14:27)
Jesus sees that the disciples are fearful. And rightly so from their perspective. Jesus is talking about going away and back to the father. But they expected the Messiah to overthrow Roman rule and set up his kingdom on earth. An absent Jesus was not part of their ministry plan. So Jesus assures them by saying he will leave them with his peace that is different from the world’s peace.
The Greek word for “peace” is ĕirēnē, which means peace, quietness, and rest. It is the New Testament equivalent of the Old Testament Hebrew word shalom which conveys wholeness, well-being, soundness, harmony, safety, and covenant blessing under God.
How is Jesus’ peace different than the world’s peace?
The Greek word for “world” is kosmos and means the universe, created order, humanity, and, as in this verse, fallen humanity in rebellion against God. In other words, non-believers who reject Jesus Christ. What does peace look like for that person? Since there is no relationship wth God, it’s a peace limited to earthly circumstances. And seeks comfort through control, possessions, social approval, political stability, or the absence of conflict externally and internally.
The world cannot obtain Jesus’ peace because it is something he gives us. And is first and foremost, peace with God. Our sinful rebellion positions us against God, but we are reconciled through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. And this includes eternal life which means our earthly conflicts are temporary and our wellbeing in heaven secured. It is a peace that confronts fear and anxiety, but doesn’t mean we always feel calm, avoid hardship, or escape sorrow. But that we live in union with Christ and are kept by Him.
A study of John 14:25-31 reveals the coming ruler of this world.
I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. (ESV, John 14:30-31)
Jesus says their communication will be sparse going forward. And then delivers an important news flash. The ruler of this world is coming. And that is Satan, the fallen angel, who was cast out of heaven. His name means adversary or accuser who stands against another in hostility. Here’s how Peter describes him.
Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. (ESV, 1 Peter 5:8)
The Greek word for “devour” is katapinō, which means to drink down, gulp entire, devour, and swallow up. It describes Satan’s predatory intent to destroy the faith, witness, joy, holiness, and even the souls of God’s people. Peter compares him to the savage power of a lion as it stalks, pounces, crushes, and completely consumes its prey. We should expect the same ruthless, ferociousness from Satan toward us.
But he has no claim on Jesus.
Why? Because as the Son of God, Jesus was without sin, despite Satan’s efforts to tempt him into it. Therefore, Satan had no hold on him. And while Satan was active in the events leading up to the crucifixion, it was God’s divine plan to redeem humanity from sin. So we should not give Satan undue credit.
The main point is Jesus’ obedience in following the father’s will by sacrificing himself on the cross. And V.31 states the reason for his willing submission. “So that the world may know that I love the Father.” Satan’s murderous plans are real, but subordinate to God’s sovereign redemptive purpose. What others intended for evil, God used to save his people. Therefore, the disciples should not despair in the coming crucifixion but trust the sovereign, obedient, and victorious Savior.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.
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