John 14:31

Authorized King James Version

But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀλλ'

G235

But

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

γνῷ

G1097

may know

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κόσμος

G2889

the world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἀγαπῶ

G25

I love

to love (in a social or moral sense)

τὸν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πατήρ

G3962

the Father

a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#11

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#12

ἐνετείλατο

G1781

commandment

to enjoin

#13

μοι

G3427

to me

#14

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#15

πατήρ

G3962

the Father

a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)

#16

οὕτως

G3779

even so

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

#17

ποιῶ

G4160

I do

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

#18

Ἐγείρεσθε

G1453

Arise

to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from

#19

ἄγωμεν

G71

let us go

properly, to lead; by implication, to bring, drive, (reflexively) go, (specially) pass (time), or (figuratively) induce

#20

ἐντεῦθεν

G1782

hence

hence (literally or figuratively); (repeated) on both sides

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of John.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on divine love particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding divine love as presented in this verse, particularly in light of responding to cultural confusion about the nature of love and relationships?
In what ways does understanding love in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about divine love?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on love address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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John 14:31

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources