John 14:31

KJV

But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G235} that {G2443} the world {G2889} may know {G1097} that {G3754} I love {G25} the Father {G3962}; and {G2532} as {G2531} the Father {G3962} gave {G1781} me {G3427} commandment {G1781}, even so {G3779} I do {G4160}. Arise {G1453}, let us go {G71} hence {G1782}.

Complete Jewish Bible

rather, this is happening so that the world may know that I love the Father, and that I do as the Father has commanded me.

“Get up! Let’s get going!

Berean Standard Bible

But I do exactly what the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Get up! Let us go on from here.

American Standard Version

but that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
John 14:31 serves as a profound declaration by Jesus, concluding His intimate Upper Room discourse with His disciples and signaling the imminent commencement of His Passion. It reveals His perfect love for the Father and His unwavering obedience to the divine command, highlighting that His impending sacrifice is not a forced act but a willing demonstration of filial devotion. The verse culminates in a decisive call to action, transitioning from teaching to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through His suffering and death.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the climactic conclusion of Jesus' extensive Upper Room discourse, which began in [John 13](/john/13 "John 13 - The Last Supper and Foot Washing"). Chapters 13 and 14 are characterized by Jesus' intimate teachings to His disciples, preparing them for His physical departure, comforting them amidst their confusion and sorrow, and promising the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - Promise of the Holy Spirit") and [John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit as Teacher")). Having addressed their fears, promised His return, and revealed the nature of His relationship with the Father, Jesus now brings the discourse to a close with a definitive statement of purpose and a command to depart, setting the stage for the events of Gethsemane and His arrest. The preceding verses in [John 14](/john/14 "John 14 - Jesus Comforts His Disciples") have focused on themes of abiding in Christ, the Father's dwelling, and the Spirit's role, making this concluding verse a powerful summary of Jesus' commitment to the divine will that undergirds all these promises.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is Jerusalem during the Passover week, a time of immense religious and nationalistic fervor. Jesus and His disciples have just shared the Last Supper, a meal deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, yet now imbued with new meaning through Jesus' actions and words. The phrase "Arise, let us go hence" suggests a move from the relative safety and intimacy of the Upper Room, likely a private residence, to a more public or vulnerable location. Historically, this would be the transition to the Garden of Gethsemane, located on the Mount of Olives, a place of prayer and, ultimately, betrayal. The cultural expectation of a Messiah who would overthrow Roman rule stands in stark contrast to Jesus' path of suffering and obedience, emphasizing the unique nature of His kingship and mission. His public demonstration of love for the Father through obedience unto death would be a radical redefinition of power and divine will in that cultural milieu.
* **Key Themes:** John 14:31 powerfully crystallizes several major themes woven throughout the Gospel of John and Jesus' ministry. Firstly, **Divine Love and Obedience** is paramount; Jesus' actions are portrayed as a direct outflow of His perfect love for the Father, demonstrating that true love is expressed through obedience, as He also taught His disciples in [John 15:10](/john/15-10 "John 15:10 - Abiding in Jesus' Love through Obedience"). Secondly, the theme of **Revelation and Witness** is central, as Jesus states His purpose is "that the world may know." His obedience unto death is not merely a private act but a public testimony to the nature of God and the divine plan of salvation, revealing the Father through the Son ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - No one has seen God; the Son reveals Him")). Finally, the verse marks a critical **Transition to Sacrifice and Fulfillment**, signifying the shift from teaching to the active, physical culmination of His redemptive mission. This transition highlights Jesus' sovereign control over His destiny and His willing embrace of the Father's command to lay down His life, as previously stated in [John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus' Authority to Lay Down His Life").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **love (Greek, _agapáō'_):** This verb signifies a profound, unconditional, and self-sacrificial love. Here, it describes Jesus' perfect devotion to the Father, a love that undergirds His entire mission and motivates His obedience. Unlike other forms of love, _agapáō_ is often volitional and expresses a commitment of the will, making Jesus' declaration a powerful statement of His deliberate and unwavering affection for God.
* **commandment (Greek, _entéllomai'_):** This word, used here as a verb meaning "gave me commandment" or "to enjoin," indicates a divine injunction or mandate. It is a directive from the highest authority, not a mere suggestion. Jesus' use of this term emphasizes that His actions are in direct fulfillment of the Father's specific and authoritative will, highlighting the unity of purpose between the Father and the Son.
* **Arise (Greek, _egeírō'_):** This imperative verb means "to waken, rouse, lift up, or rise up." In this context, it is a command to cease their current activity (sitting and conversing) and to physically move. Beyond the literal meaning, it carries a sense of decisive action and a transition from a state of rest or discourse to one of active engagement with the unfolding divine plan, moving towards the ultimate act of sacrifice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But that the world may know that I love the Father;"**: This clause introduces the ultimate purpose behind Jesus' impending actions. The conjunction "But" (G235, _allá_) signals a contrast or a new emphasis, shifting from the preceding discourse to the practical demonstration of His truth. The phrase "that the world may know" (G2443, _hína_ + G2889, _kósmos_ + G1097, _ginṓskō_) indicates a divine purpose clause: Jesus' obedience is not merely for His own sake or the disciples' benefit, but it is a public, revelatory act. It is intended to manifest to all humanity—"the world" (G2889, _kósmos_), which often in John's Gospel signifies humanity in its fallen state—the profound, active love (G25, _agapáō_) that exists between the Son and the Father (G3962, _patḗr_). This love is the foundational motive for all that Jesus is about to endure.
* **"and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do."**: This clause specifies the nature of Jesus' love for the Father: it is expressed through perfect obedience. The conjunction "and" (G2532, _kaí_) links this statement directly to the preceding one. "As the Father gave me commandment" (G2531, _kathṓs_ + G3962, _patḗr_ + G1781, _entéllomai_) underscores the divine origin of Jesus' mission, emphasizing that His actions are not self-initiated but are in direct fulfillment of the Father's authoritative directive. The phrase "even so I do" (G3779, _hoútō_ + G4160, _poiéō_) demonstrates Jesus' complete and active execution of that divine will. It is a declaration of His absolute submission and perfect alignment with God's plan, culminating in His willingness to lay down His life.
* **"Arise, let us go hence."**: This final, abrupt clause marks a dramatic shift from discourse to decisive action. "Arise" (G1453, _egeírō_) is an imperative, a direct command to His disciples and to Himself, signaling the end of the intimate teaching session. "Let us go" (G71, _ágō_) further emphasizes the immediate departure, and "hence" (G1782, _enteûthen_) signifies leaving the current location. This is not merely a logistical instruction but a solemn, resolute declaration of readiness to proceed to Gethsemane and the unfolding events of the Passion, thereby fulfilling the very commandment He just referenced. It is a call to move from contemplation to the ultimate act of redemptive love.

#### Literary Devices
John 14:31 is rich with literary devices that amplify its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Purpose Clause**, explicitly stated by Jesus with "that the world may know," which highlights the revelatory and evangelistic intent behind His obedience. This is not a private act but a public demonstration of divine love and unity. There is also significant **Foreshadowing**, as the command "Arise, let us go hence" immediately precedes Jesus' journey to Gethsemane, signaling the imminent betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion. This abrupt transition creates **Dramatic Irony**, as the disciples likely do not fully grasp the gravity of where "hence" will lead, while the reader, with the benefit of hindsight, understands the profound suffering and sacrifice that awaits. The verse also employs **Antithesis** implicitly by contrasting the intimacy and comfort of the Upper Room discourse with the harsh reality of the world's opposition and the path of suffering Jesus is about to embrace. Finally, the **Imperative** "Arise, let us go hence" serves as a powerful call to action, marking a decisive turning point in the narrative from Jesus' teachings to the active fulfillment of His mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
John 14:31 is a cornerstone verse, revealing the very heart of Jesus' mission: perfect love for the Father expressed through perfect obedience, even unto death. This demonstration of love is not merely an internal divine dynamic but is intended "that the world may know," making His sacrifice a public testament to God's character and redemptive plan. It underscores the unity of will between the Father and the Son, where Jesus willingly embraces the Father's "commandment" to lay down His life, thereby becoming the ultimate example of filial devotion and the means of salvation for humanity. This verse transitions the narrative from the theological instruction of the Upper Room to the practical, redemptive action of the cross, emphasizing that Jesus' suffering was a deliberate act of love and obedience, not a passive fate.

* [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience Unto Death")
* [Hebrews 5:8](/hebrews/5-8 "Hebrews 5:8 - Jesus Learned Obedience Through Suffering")
* [Romans 5:19](/romans/5-19 "Romans 5:19 - Obedience of Christ and Justification")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
John 14:31 offers profound insights for believers, challenging us to re-evaluate the depth of our own love and obedience. Jesus' declaration, "that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do," sets the ultimate standard. It teaches us that authentic love for God is not merely an emotion but is tangibly demonstrated through our willingness to obey His commands, even when costly or difficult. Our obedience becomes a visible testimony to the world, revealing the nature of God's love and His redemptive purposes. Just as Jesus moved from comfort to the cross out of love and obedience, we are called to embrace God's will, even when it leads us to uncomfortable or sacrificial paths. This verse invites us to trust God's sovereignty and goodness, knowing that His ultimate plan for us, like for Christ, is always for His glory and our good, culminating in a deeper relationship with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' statement "that the world may know that I love the Father" challenge my understanding of how my own love for God should be expressed publicly?**
* **In what specific areas of my life am I being called to demonstrate obedience to God's "commandment," even if it means stepping out of my comfort zone?**
* **What does Jesus' resolute "Arise, let us go hence" teach me about embracing difficult transitions or challenges in my own spiritual journey?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Jesus saying "that the world may know that I love the Father" just before His arrest?**

Answer: This statement is profoundly significant because it frames Jesus' impending suffering and death not as a tragic accident or a passive fate, but as a deliberate act of perfect love and obedience to God the Father. By stating "that the world may know," Jesus emphasizes that His sacrifice is a public, revelatory demonstration of the divine nature and the unity between the Father and the Son. It reveals that God's plan of salvation, culminating in the cross, is rooted in the Father's love and the Son's willing submission. It is a powerful witness to humanity, showing the depth of divine love that would go to such lengths for redemption, as seen throughout [John's Gospel](/john "The Gospel of John").

**Why does Jesus say "Arise, let us go hence" at this particular moment?**

Answer: The phrase "Arise, let us go hence" marks a critical turning point in the narrative. It signifies the conclusion of Jesus' intimate Upper Room discourse with His disciples and His immediate, decisive move towards the Garden of Gethsemane, where He would face intense spiritual agony, betrayal, and arrest. This command is not merely a logistical instruction but a solemn declaration of His readiness to fulfill the Father's ultimate commandment—to lay down His life. It underscores Jesus' sovereign control over the unfolding events, demonstrating His willingness to embrace the path of suffering and sacrifice for the redemption of humanity, as He stated in [John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus' Authority to Lay Down His Life").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
John 14:31 finds its Christ-centered fulfillment in the ultimate demonstration of God's love and obedience through Jesus' atoning sacrifice on the cross. Jesus' declaration, "that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do," perfectly encapsulates the essence of His redemptive mission. His love for the Father was not merely sentimental but manifested in perfect, active obedience, culminating in His willingness to endure the cross. This act of obedience, from Gethsemane to Golgotha, was the Father's divine "commandment" for the Son to lay down His life, as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:10](/isaiah/53-10 "Isaiah 53:10 - The Lord's Will to Bruise Him"). Through this perfect obedience, Jesus became the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system. His "Arise, let us go hence" was the decisive step towards actualizing salvation, providing the means for humanity to be reconciled to God. Thus, Jesus' love and obedience, displayed in His Passion, reveal the Father's character and establish the new covenant, inviting all who believe to share in His victory and eternal life ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love") and [Hebrews 10:7](/hebrews/10-7 "Hebrews 10:7 - Jesus Comes to Do God's Will")).

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 10:18

No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

Philippians 2:8

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

John 12:49

For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.

Luke 12:50

But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!

John 4:34

Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.

Hebrews 5:7

Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;

Hebrews 5:8

Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;