Bible Commentary

John 14:12-17

Matthew Henry on John 14:12-17

Matthew Henry Concise Commentary · Matthew Henry · CC0 1.0 Universal

Whatever we ask in Christ's name, that shall be for our good, and suitable to our state, he shall give it to us. To ask in Christ's name, is to plead his merit and intercession, and to depend upon that plea.

The gift of the Spirit is a fruit of Christ's mediation, bought by his merit, and received by his intercession. The word used here, signifies an advocate, counsellor, monitor, and comforter. He would abide with the disciples to the end of time; his gifts and graces would encourage their hearts.

The expressions used here and elsewhere, plainly denote a person, and the office itself includes all the Divine perfections. The gift of the Holy Ghost is bestowed upon the disciples of Christ, and not on the world.

This is the favour God bears to his chosen. As the source of holiness and happiness, the Holy Spirit will abide with every believer for ever.

Recommended reading

More for John 14:12-17

Continue with other commentaries and DiscipleDeck content connected to this verse, chapter, or topic.

commentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:1-31EXPOSITIONJoseph S. Exell and contributorscommentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:8-21(5) The question of Philip, with the reply.Joseph S. Exell and contributorscommentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:8-21Philip's questioning. This disciple, one of the earliest, seizes upon the last word of our Lord and asks for a bodily sight of the Father. I. PHILIP'S DEMAND TO SEE THE FATHER. "Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficet…Joseph S. Exell and contributorscommentaryChrist's Consolatory DiscourseCHRIST'S CONSOLATORY DISCOURSE. The disciples, as they were full of grief to think of parting with their Master, so they were full of care what would become of themselves when he was gone; while he was with them, he was…Matthew HenrycommentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:12Verily, verily—with a fresh emphasis he turns now, not from Philip to the eleven, but from the eleven to all who will believe on him through their word—I say unto you, He that believeth on me—observe here a nominative a…Joseph S. Exell and contributorscommentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:12-15(b) The greater works, and their conditions and issues, He offers a fresh ground of consolation, based on the double consideration, first of his departure from them and abiding presence with them, and then on the reflex…Joseph S. Exell and contributorscommentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:12The greater works of the believer. I. THE NEED OF THESE GREATER WORKS. We know the works of Jesus in the flesh—certainly not all he did; but still we know the kind of things he did. And we know, too, that if nothing mor…Joseph S. Exell and contributorscommentaryThe Pulpit Commentary on John 14:12The greater works. Our Lord Jesus when on earth was during the whole of his ministry a Worker. He spoke of his works, and of his resolve to work the works of the Father. In the text there is no disparagement of these di…Joseph S. Exell and contributors