John 14:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
John 14:13
13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Chapter Context
John 14 is a theological gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, worship, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 90-95 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed late first-century challenges from both Judaism and emerging Gnostic thought.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within John and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
John 14:13
13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
Analysis
Jesus promises 'whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do' (kai ho ti an aitesete en to onomati mou touto poieso). The comprehensive 'whatsoever' (ho ti an) might suggest blank-check prayer, but the qualifier 'in my name' (en to onomati mou) provides crucial limitation. Asking 'in Jesus' name' means praying according to His character, authority, and will - not merely attaching His name to selfish requests. Jesus' purpose in answering prayer follows: 'that the Father may be glorified in the Son' (hina doxasthe ho pater en to hyio). Prayer's ultimate aim is the Father's glory manifested through the Son's mediation. This verse establishes Jesus' role as mediator - prayers offered in His name receive divine response. The promise assumes prayers aligned with God's redemptive purposes. Jesus' confident 'I will do it' (touto poieso) asserts His divine authority to act.
Historical Context
In Jewish practice, invoking a name meant appealing to that person's authority and character. Kings' decrees were issued 'in the king's name.' Jesus authorizes believers to pray in His name - an astounding grant of access to divine authority. Early Christians prayed 'through Jesus Christ our Lord,' a formula still used in liturgy. The promise addressed disciples' impending loss of Jesus' physical presence - though absent, He remains accessible through prayer. Church history shows debate about prayer's mechanics - how does Christ's mediation work? Reformers emphasized Christ's priestly intercession (Hebrews 7:25). Catholic tradition added Mary and saints as additional mediators, which Reformation rejected. The promise requires wisdom - it's not manipulation but submission, not claiming but asking, not demanding but trusting.
Reflection
- What does it mean to ask 'in Jesus' name' - is it merely a formula or does it require alignment with His character and will?
- How does the purpose clause 'that the Father may be glorified' qualify the 'whatsoever' of this promise?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: John 14:14, 15:7, 15:16, 16:23, Matthew 7:7, 21:22