King James Version

What Does John 14:1 Mean?

John 14:1 in the King James Version says “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” — study this verse from John chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.”

John 14:1 · KJV

Faith

Context

1

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

2

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

3

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Read John 14 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus commands 'Let not your heart be troubled' (me tarassestho hymon he kardia), using present imperative with negative to prohibit ongoing anxiety. The verb tarasso means to stir up, agitate, disturb. Jesus addresses emotional turmoil with theological truth: 'ye believe in God, believe also in me' (pisteuete eis ton theon, kai eis eme pisteuete). This can be read as indicative (you believe... you believe) or imperative (believe... believe). Either way, Jesus parallels faith in God with faith in Himself - a staggering claim to equality with God. Trust in Christ is presented as the antidote to troubled hearts. The command comes immediately after Jesus predicts Judas' betrayal and Peter's denial - circumstances that would naturally produce anxiety. Yet Jesus offers His own person as the ground for peace. Faith in Christ's identity, mission, and promises overcomes circumstances.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Spoken in the Upper Room on the night before crucifixion, these words address disciples' confusion and fear as Jesus predicts His departure. The Farewell Discourse (chapters 14-17) provides Jesus' final instructions to prepare them for His absence. In Jewish thought, a troubled heart indicated spiritual distress and covenant-breaking anxiety. Jesus' parallel between faith in God and faith in Himself establishes His divine identity - only God is proper object of saving faith. Early Christians facing persecution found comfort in this command. Church tradition has used this verse in funeral liturgy, addressing grief with resurrection hope. The command remains relevant: circumstances inevitably disturb, but faith in Christ provides stable ground. Martin Luther reportedly wrote this verse on his study wall as encouragement during Reformation conflicts.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus' command not to be troubled relate to genuine emotional processing versus suppression?
  2. What is the relationship between believing in God and believing in Jesus, and why does Jesus parallel them?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
Μὴ1 of 13

“not”

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

ταρασσέσθω2 of 13

“Let”

G5015

to stir or agitate (roil water)

ὑμῶν3 of 13

“your”

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

ἡ4 of 13
G3588

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

καρδία·5 of 13

“heart”

G2588

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

πιστεύετε6 of 13

“believe”

G4100

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch

εἰς7 of 13

“in”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὸν8 of 13
G3588

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

θεόν9 of 13

“God”

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

καὶ10 of 13

“also”

G2532

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

εἰς11 of 13

“in”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ἐμὲ12 of 13

“me”

G1691

me

πιστεύετε13 of 13

“believe”

G4100

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 14:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 14:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 26:3John 16:22-23Isaiah 12:2-3John 14:27-282 Corinthians 12:9-10John 6:40

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