John 14:1-14

 

In 14:1-14, Jesus assures the disciples that his return to his father assures a non-breaking, continuous communion with him and with the father. He further explains that he is the one who reveals God (14:8-11) and points to the disciples’ task of manifesting God’s works (14:12-14).[1]

The lesson begins with three imperatives-Do not / Believe / believe. The verb for “troubled” (tarasso, v. 2a) translates a verb used three times previously in the Gospel to describe Jesus’ condition of distress (11:33; 12:27; 13:21).[2]

I AM the way. Bultmann: the writer’s use of “the way” reflects Gnostic influence; C.H. Dodd: “the way” is to be found in the Egyptian hermetic literature; Raymond Brown: “way” usage is found within Jewish wisdom tradition, reflecting “wise” lifestyle.[3]

Encountering Jesus-a paradox: though Jesus is absent, they will encounter him in prayer and in his life-giving responses to their prayer (14:13-14).[4]

 

Notice the specialized johannine language and ideas-belief / presence within absence / I AM / the relationship between Jesus and his father / truth / way / life / works, etc. In a homily the proclaimer could simply unpack key terms and then to put them back into the discourse for a better hearing/understanding.

Lesson connections-how do we live in Jesus’ absence? Any examples of a close family member who is no longer with you, yet is still remembered in such a way that their “presence” yet impacts your thoughts / actions? Or the same could said of a family member in the military service, who is physically removed from immediate, personal communion.

Note the post-modern resurgence of interest in angels, new age, and spirituality. There is a yearning for “ultimate reality” and an encounter with God. How can this lesson provide new categories and resources to help offer people ways to encourage personal encounter with and relationship to God? 

For a homily on this passage, please see the sermon entitled, “Home,” in the DPS homily section

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[1] Warren Carter, New Proclamation (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2002), page 45.
[2] New Interpreter’s Bible IX (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1995), page 740.
[3] Cited in NIB IX, page 742.
[4] New Proclamation, page 47.