Commentary on John 14:28

In John 14:28, Jesus states, "You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I." This verse encapsulates significant theological themes, including the nature of Christ, the relationship between the Father and the Son, and the response of believers to Christ's departure.

Contextual Background

This verse comes from a portion of Scripture where Jesus is giving final instructions to His disciples during the Last Supper. The atmosphere is thick with emotion as Jesus prepares to leave them, foretelling His death and subsequent resurrection. The disciples are troubled, not just because of the impending loss but also due to their misunderstanding of Jesus’ mission.

The Relationship between the Father and the Son

Jesus mentions that "the Father is greater than I," which has been a subject of extensive theological discussion. Matthew Henry emphasizes that this statement reflects the economic subordination within the Trinity. While both the Father and Son are equal in essence, Jesus’ human incarnation entails a role of submission to the Father’s will.

Albert Barnes elaborates on this by noting that the "greater than" statement should be understood in terms of Christ’s earthly ministry. In His incarnation, Christ operated under the authority of the Father, particularly as it pertains to His mission to redeem humanity. This does not diminish Christ's divine nature but highlights His humility and obedience.

The Joy of Departure

Jesus’ assertion that the disciples should rejoice at His going reveals profound theological insight. Adam Clarke explains that this joy is rooted in the understanding of Christ’s glorification and ascension. The physical departure should be viewed through the lens of spiritual advancement; Christ's ascension opens the way for the Holy Spirit to indwell the believers, leading to a more profound relationship with God.

Furthermore, this sentiment of joy contrasts sharply with the disciples’ sorrow. Jesus calls them to a higher perspective, urging them to recognize the benefits of His going—namely, their eventual empowerment and the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation.

Responses of Believers

The implied expectation for believers to rejoice indicates a shift in understanding from fear of abandonment to anticipation of fulfillment. Matthew Henry states that the heart of a faithful believer will find solace in the promises of Christ. It is essential for the disciples—and by extension all believers—to adapt their expectations concerning Jesus’ ministry to align with God’s purpose.

This call to rejoice also illustrates the pastoral heart of Jesus. He understands the troubles of His disciples, yet He gently redirects their focus from their immediate grief to the larger narrative of salvation history. The response of love should prompt rejoicing, as the coming events are not merely about loss but about divine victory.

Theological Implications

John 14:28 serves as a pivotal verse for understanding both Christology and Trinitarian relations. It teaches that while Jesus fully participates in the divine nature, His role as the Son includes submission to the Father’s authority. This verse invites further exploration of themes like submission, authority, and love within the Trinity.

• Incarnation and Humility: Jesus' willingness to submit reflects the depths of His humility, serving as a model for believers.
• Understanding Love: Christ equates the love of believers with their understanding of His mission.
• Empowerment through the Holy Spirit: The promise of the Spirit is a consequence of Christ’s departure, providing believers with continual guidance.

Conclusion

In summary, John 14:28 offers rich insights that challenge believers to transcend immediate emotional responses and embrace a deeper understanding of God's redemptive plan. By interpreting this verse through the lenses of love, joy, and the interrelationship of the Trinity, pastors, students, and scholars can derive significant encouragement and theological insight. The call to rejoice, even during times of trial, is a poignant reminder of the hope embedded in the gospel narrative.