King James Version

What Does John 14:20 Mean?

At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

Context

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.

21

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

22

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

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(20) **At that day ye shall know**—*i.e.,* the day of the gift of the Comforter, in whom Christ shall come to them. In the first reference the Day of Pentecost is meant, but the words hold good of every spiritual quickening, and will hold good of the final coming in the last day. The pronoun *“*ye” is emphatic—“Ye shall know for yourselves.” **That I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.**—Comp. Note on John 10:38. The result of this spiritual illumination would be that they should of themselves know the immanence of the Son in the Father, and their own union with the Father through Him. They ask now (John 14:8) for a manifestation of the Father. The Spirit should so bring the life of Christ to their hearts that they would read in it the manifestation of the Father, and feel that in and through that life their own spirit has communion with God. The Spirit would witness with their spirit that they were the children of God. They would seek no longer for a Theophany from without, but in the depth of their inmost lives would cry, “Abba, Father.”

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 14:20 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 14:20

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge