John 14:22,23 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible

Bible Comments

Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot,— It is observable, that Judas Iscariot was so finished a hypocrite, that we never find him saying one word of Christ's temporal kingdom, though probablythe hope of preferment and gain in it, was the chief consideration which engaged him to follow our Lord. The person here spoken of, was Judas, the son of Alpheus, the brother of James the Less, and a near relation of our Lord himself. See on Matthew 10:2. Being so nearly related to Jesus, he might think himself peculiarly concerned to inquire into the meaning of an assertion which seemed inconsistent with the prospect of a temporal kingdom, in which perhaps he mightexpect some eminent office; and as, according to the notions which they had conceived of the Messiah, he was to appear to all the Jews, nay, to the whole world, and was to take unto himself universal empire; our Saviour's last words, John 14:21 surprised and perplexed them not a little. Our Lord, therefore, in reply to Judas, told him, that he spake chiefly of a spiritual manifestation, such as the Father and he make of themselves to true believers, even on earth, by a revelation of themselves, and by the influence of the Holy Spirit who dwells in the believer's heart as his temple, 1 Corinthians 3:16 for through the influences of the Spirit of God, believers are enlightened with a knowledge of the perfections of God, and withjust views of the character and office of his Son. Moreover, by the same influences, they are sanctified for an habitation of God, Ephesians 2:22 who makes his abode with them, and fills them with all peace and joy in believing, and with the most elevating hopes; and also sheds abroad in their hearts a sense of his love and, by so doing, gives them praelibations of heaven while on earth. The latter clause of this verse is remarkable; for had our Lord been a creature, though of the highest rank, it would have been blasphemy in him to have joined himself in this manner with God: My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

John 14:22-23

22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?

23 Jesus answered and said unto him,If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.