New Testament
John 14:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, that is the one who loves me. And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him."
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He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
What John 14:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the connection between love and obedience. He states that true love for Him is demonstrated by keeping His commandments. This means that those who genuinely follow His teachings show their love for Him. Furthermore, Jesus assures that those who love Him will receive love from God the Father, and He Himself will reveal His presence to them. This highlights a reciprocal relationship: love leads to deeper knowledge and connection with God. The verse encourages believers to actively live out their faith through obedience, which in turn strengthens their relationship with Jesus and the Father. It reassures them that their efforts to follow His commands are recognized and rewarded with divine love and revelation. This passage serves as a reminder that love for God is not just a feeling but is expressed through actions and adherence to His teachings.
How to apply John 14:21 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on understanding and following Jesus' teachings in daily life. Reflect on how your actions demonstrate your love for Him. Engage in prayer and study to deepen your relationship with God, seeking to know Him more intimately through obedience.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Comforts His Disciples (John 14:1–16:33)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
How does love for Jesus relate to God's love for us?
According to John 14:21, loving Jesus by keeping His commandments results in being loved by God the Father. This reciprocal relationship emphasizes that our love for Jesus opens the door to experiencing God's love more fully, creating a deeper connection with Him.
What is the significance of Jesus revealing Himself to us?
When Jesus says He will reveal Himself to those who love Him, it signifies a personal and intimate relationship. This revelation can come through understanding His teachings, experiencing His presence in prayer, or recognizing His guidance in life. It assures believers that their commitment to Him leads to deeper spiritual insights.
How can I practically show my love for Jesus?
You can show your love for Jesus by actively living out His teachings. This includes engaging in acts of kindness, practicing forgiveness, serving others, and prioritizing prayer and Bible study. Reflecting on how your daily choices align with His commandments will help you demonstrate your love in tangible ways.
What does this verse teach about faith and obedience?
John 14:21 teaches that faith is not just a belief but is demonstrated through obedience to Jesus' commandments. True faith manifests in actions that align with His teachings, showing that love for Him is expressed through our choices and behaviors. This obedience deepens our faith and relationship with God.
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