John 14:21
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.
John 14:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Gospel of John is a powerful reminder of the importance of following God's commandments as a demonstration of our love for Him. By obeying His commandments, we show our love and respect for God, and in turn, we are promised to be loved by the Father and to have Jesus Himself manifest in our lives. This verse emphasizes the intimate and personal relationship that believers can have with God through love and obedience. It serves as a call to action for Christians to not only profess their love for God but also to demonstrate it through their actions and behavior. Ultimately, this verse highlights the reciprocal nature of the relationship between God and His followers, where love and obedience bring blessings, closeness, and a deeper connection with the divine.
Theological Overview
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of both knowing and obeying his commandments as a demonstration of love for him. By following his teachings and living in accordance with his words, believers show their devotion to him. Jesus promises that those who love him in this way will also be loved by the Father, further solidifying the idea of the interconnectedness of the members of the Trinity. Moreover, Jesus declares that he will personally love those who love him and will reveal himself to them. This promise indicates a special or intimate relationship with Jesus for those who faithfully follow his teachings. The act of obedience to Jesus's commandments is thus seen as a key component of demonstrating love for both Jesus and the Father, leading to a deeper experience of their love and presence in the believer's life.
John 14:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
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 unto him.
World English Bible
One who has my commandments, and keeps them, that person is one who loves me. One who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and will reveal myself to him.”
Douay-Rheims
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.
Geneva Bible (1599)
He that hath my commandements, and keepeth them, is he that loueth me: and he that loueth me, shall be loued of my Father: and I will loue him, and wil shewe mine owne selfe to him.