King James Version
What Does John 14:18 Mean?
“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. comfortless: or, orphans”
Context
16
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
17
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
18
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. comfortless: or, orphans
19
Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.
20
At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(18) **I will not leave you comfortless.**—Better with the margin, *I will not leave you orphans,* which exactly represents the Greek word. “Comfortless” is unfortunate, as it suggests a connection with “Comforter” which does not exist in the original. Our translators have rendered the word by “fatherless” in James 1:27, which is the only other passage where it occurs in the New Testament, and Wiclif has “faderless” here. He thinks of them as His children whom He is leaving in the world (comp. John 13:33), but He will not leave them destitute and bereaved.
**I will come to you.**—This coming, as is shown by the whole context, is the spiritual presence in the person of the Paraclete.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 14:18 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 14:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge