John 14:26

KJV

But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} the Comforter {G3875}, which is the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151}, whom {G3739} the Father {G3962} will send {G3992} in {G1722} my {G3450} name {G3686}, he {G1565} shall teach {G1321} you {G5209} all things {G3956}, and {G2532} bring {G5279} all things {G3956} to {G5279} your {G5209} remembrance {G5279}, whatsoever {G3739} I have said {G2036} unto you {G5213}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But the Counselor, the Ruach HaKodesh, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything; that is, he will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Berean Standard Bible

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you.

American Standard Version

But the Comforter, even the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said unto you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 14:26 presents a pivotal promise from Jesus to His disciples concerning the Holy Spirit, whom He identifies as the "Comforter" or "Advocate." This verse assures believers that after Jesus' physical departure, the Father will send the Holy Spirit in Jesus' name to serve as their divine teacher, guiding them into all truth and enabling them to recall and fully comprehend all that Jesus had taught them during His earthly ministry. It underscores the Spirit's indispensable role in preserving, interpreting, and applying Christ's words for all generations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Jesus' Farewell Discourse in the Upper Room, spanning [John 13](/john/13 "John 13 - The Last Supper and Farewell Discourse") through [John 17](/john/17 "John 17 - Jesus' High Priestly Prayer"). Jesus is preparing His disciples for His imminent crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, which will mark His physical departure from them. The disciples are troubled and confused by His words about leaving. In [John 14:16-18](/john/14-16-18 "John 14:16-18 - The Promise of the Helper"), Jesus first introduces the concept of another "Comforter" or "Helper" (Paraclete) who will be with them forever, assuring them they will not be left as orphans. [John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit as Teacher and Reminder") elaborates on this promise, specifically identifying this Helper as the Holy Spirit and detailing His two primary functions: teaching and reminding. This promise directly follows Jesus' statement about manifesting Himself to those who love Him and keep His commandments ([John 14:21](/john/14-21 "John 14:21 - Manifestation to Believers")), reinforcing the idea that His presence will continue through the Spirit. The discourse continues with further promises of peace and the Spirit's role in conviction and guidance ([John 14:27-31](/john/14-27-31 "John 14:27-31 - Peace and Departure")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The disciples, being Jewish, would have been familiar with the concept of God's Spirit interacting with humanity, as seen in the Old Testament (e.g., inspiring prophets, empowering leaders). However, the promise of the Spirit's indwelling and ongoing teaching role for all believers, particularly after the Messiah's departure, was a new and profound revelation. They were accustomed to rabbinic teaching, where disciples memorized and recalled their master's words. Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit as a divine teacher and reminder would have resonated with this cultural practice but elevated it to a supernatural level, ensuring perfect recall and understanding of His divine instruction. The idea of a "Comforter" or "Advocate" also had legal and social connotations in the Greco-Roman world, referring to someone who stands alongside another to provide aid, counsel, or defense. This concept would have underscored the comprehensive support the Spirit would provide in a world hostile to the nascent Christian movement.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within John's Gospel and biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights the **Trinitarian nature of God**, showing the Father sending the Spirit *in the Son's name*, demonstrating the unified purpose and work of the Godhead. Secondly, it emphasizes the **continuing divine presence** with believers, ensuring they are not abandoned after Jesus' ascension. The Spirit's indwelling presence fulfills Jesus' promise to be with them always ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission and Jesus' Presence")). Thirdly, the verse establishes the **Holy Spirit's role as the divine teacher and interpreter of truth**. This is crucial for the faithful transmission of Jesus' teachings and the ongoing understanding of God's revelation. The Spirit's work ensures that the truth of Christ is not lost or distorted but is accurately remembered and applied, leading believers into deeper spiritual understanding and maturity, as further elaborated in [John 16:13-15](/john/16-13-15 "John 16:13-15 - The Spirit's Guidance into All Truth")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **teach (Greek, _didáskō'_):** This word (G1321) is a prolonged (causative) form of a primary verb meaning "to learn," thus signifying "to teach" in a broad application. In this context, it emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role as the primary instructor for believers. The Spirit's teaching is not merely imparting information but enabling comprehension, spiritual discernment, and the application of divine truth to life. This teaching is comprehensive ("all things") and ongoing, guiding disciples into a deeper understanding of Christ's words and God's will.
* **name (Greek, _ónoma'_):** This term (G3686) refers to a "name" literally or figuratively, encompassing authority, character, and reputation. When the Father sends the Holy Spirit "in my name," it signifies that the Spirit comes with the full authority of Jesus, representing His person, extending His mission, and acting according to His will and character. The Spirit's work is intrinsically linked to Christ, upholding His teachings and glorifying Him, rather than acting independently.
* **all things (Greek, _pâs'_):** This word (G3956), encompassing all forms of declension, means "all, any, every, the whole." Its repetition in the verse ("teach you all things," "bring all things to your remembrance") underscores the comprehensive nature of the Holy Spirit's work. The Spirit's teaching and reminding are not selective but cover the entirety of Christ's revelation, ensuring that no essential truth is overlooked or forgotten. This provides a complete and holistic understanding of God's plan and Jesus' message.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost":** This clause introduces the divine agent promised by Jesus. "Comforter" (Greek: _Paráklētos_) is a rich term meaning "one called alongside," encompassing roles such as advocate, helper, counselor, and consoler. The identification as "the Holy Ghost" (Holy Spirit) emphasizes His divine nature and distinct personality within the Trinity. He is not merely an influence but a divine Person.
* **"whom the Father will send in my name":** This clarifies the source and authority of the Spirit's mission. The Father initiates the sending, demonstrating His love and provision for believers. The phrase "in my name" signifies that the Spirit's mission is authorized by Jesus, represents His character, and continues His work on earth. It highlights the unity of purpose among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
* **"he shall teach you all things":** This outlines the Spirit's primary function as an instructor. The Spirit will supernaturally enable believers to grasp spiritual truths, understand God's will, and gain wisdom that transcends human intellect. This teaching is comprehensive, covering "all things" necessary for faith and life, including the deeper implications of Jesus' words.
* **"and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you":** This describes the Spirit's crucial role in preserving the integrity of Jesus' teachings. For the disciples, this meant supernatural recall and accurate understanding of Jesus' extensive verbal instruction, which was vital for their future ministry and the faithful transmission of the Gospel. For all believers, it means the Spirit illuminates Scripture, making Jesus' words living and active in their hearts and minds, ensuring their continued relevance and power.

#### Literary Devices
John 14:26 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Personification** is central, as the Holy Spirit is presented not as an abstract force but as a distinct divine person who "teaches" and "brings to remembrance," actions typically attributed to sentient beings. This reinforces the Spirit's personality and active role in the lives of believers. The term "Comforter" itself, a translation of _Paráklētos_, functions as **Symbolism**, representing the multifaceted support, advocacy, and consolation that the Spirit provides. It is a symbolic title encapsulating His comprehensive ministry. Furthermore, the **Repetition** of "all things" ("teach you all things," "bring all things to your remembrance") serves as an emphatic device, underscoring the comprehensive and exhaustive nature of the Holy Spirit's work in guiding believers into a complete understanding of Christ's revelation. This repetition ensures the reader grasps the breadth and depth of the Spirit's instructional and mnemonic ministry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 14:26 is foundational for understanding the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit within the Christian life and the church. It reveals the Spirit as the divine agent who actualizes Christ's presence and teaching in the lives of believers, ensuring that the truth revealed in Jesus is never lost but continually illuminated and applied. This verse establishes the Spirit's indispensable role in spiritual formation, biblical understanding, and the perpetuation of the Gospel message. It underscores the Trinitarian unity in salvation history, with the Father sending the Spirit in the Son's name to empower and guide believers, thus fulfilling God's redemptive plan. The Spirit's work ensures that the church remains grounded in the apostolic teaching, continually reminded of Christ's words and empowered to live them out.

* [John 16:13](/john/16-13 "John 16:13 - The Spirit of Truth Guides into All Truth"): "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come."
* [1 Corinthians 2:10-13](/1_corinthians/2-10-13 "1 Corinthians 2:10-13 - The Spirit Reveals God's Wisdom"): "But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God... Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual."
* [1 John 2:27](/1_john/2-27 "1 John 2:27 - The Anointing Teaches All Things"): "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 14:26 offers profound comfort and practical guidance for every believer. In a world saturated with information and competing ideologies, the promise of the Holy Spirit as our divine teacher and reminder is an anchor. It means we are never left to navigate the complexities of faith and life solely by our own intellect or human wisdom. The Spirit illuminates the Scriptures, making God's ancient words alive and relevant for our contemporary challenges. When we read the Bible, the Spirit helps us recall and understand Jesus' teachings, transforming mere information into life-giving truth. In moments of confusion, doubt, or temptation, the Spirit, our Comforter, brings to mind the specific words of Christ that apply to our situation, offering clarity, conviction, and consolation. This divine assistance empowers us to live out our faith authentically, to discern God's will, and to grow in Christlikeness, ensuring that our spiritual journey is guided by divine wisdom rather than fleeting human understanding.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the Holy Spirit as your personal divine teacher change your approach to reading and studying the Bible?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you most need the Holy Spirit to bring Christ's words to your remembrance or to teach you "all things"?**
* **How can you cultivate a greater sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's teaching and reminding ministry in your daily walk?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the Holy Spirit being sent "in my name"?**

Answer: The phrase "in my name" signifies that the Holy Spirit is sent with the full authority, character, and purpose of Jesus Christ. It means the Spirit acts as Jesus' representative, continuing His work on earth after His ascension. The Spirit's ministry is not independent but is always aligned with and glorifies Christ, bringing to remembrance and teaching what Jesus Himself taught. This emphasizes the unity of purpose within the Trinity, where the Father sends the Spirit to extend the Son's redemptive mission. It assures believers that the Spirit's guidance is truly Christ's guidance, ensuring doctrinal purity and faithful adherence to Jesus' teachings.

**How does the Holy Spirit "teach you all things" and "bring all things to your remembrance" today?**

Answer: The Holy Spirit teaches believers "all things" primarily through the illumination of Scripture. While the Spirit does not impart new, extra-biblical revelation for doctrine, He enables believers to understand, interpret, and apply the written Word of God. He opens our minds to spiritual truths that are otherwise incomprehensible to the natural person ([1 Corinthians 2:14](/1_corinthians/2-14 "1 Corinthians 2:14 - The Natural Man Cannot Understand Spiritual Things")). When it comes to "bringing all things to your remembrance," the Spirit helps us recall specific biblical passages, Jesus' teachings, or God's promises that are relevant to our current circumstances. This is not about perfect rote memorization of every word Jesus spoke, but about the Spirit's ability to make the truth of God's Word living and active in our hearts and minds, providing comfort, conviction, or guidance precisely when needed. This divine recall is essential for living a life consistent with Christ's teachings and for sharing the Gospel effectively.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 14:26 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the ongoing, post-ascension ministry of Jesus through the person of the Holy Spirit. While Jesus physically departed from His disciples, He did not abandon them. Instead, He promised the Spirit as His divine surrogate, ensuring His continued presence and teaching authority among His followers. The sending of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost ([Acts 2:1-4](/acts/2-1-4 "Acts 2:1-4 - The Day of Pentecost")) was the historical fulfillment of this promise, inaugurating the age of the Spirit and the church. Through the Spirit, Christ continues to teach His church, not by new revelation, but by illuminating the written Word, ensuring that His teachings are accurately understood and applied across generations. The Spirit's role as the "Comforter" or "Advocate" means that Christ, through His Spirit, continues to intercede for believers ([Romans 8:26-27](/romans/8-26-27 "Romans 8:26-27 - The Spirit's Intercession")) and empower them for witness ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Be Witnesses")). Thus, the Holy Spirit is the tangible expression of Christ's abiding presence, making Him effectively "Immanuel" (God with us) in the lives of believers, guiding them into all truth and conforming them to the image of the Son ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 15:26

¶ But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

John 14:16

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

1 John 2:27

But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

1 Corinthians 2:10

But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

1 Corinthians 2:13

Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

John 16:7

¶ Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

1 John 2:20

¶ But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.