John 14:27

John 14:27, in plain English

Jesus leaves you with His peace, and it is not like anything the world can give. It is deeper, more resilient, and not dependent on circumstances. Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid.

Why it's here

The world's peace depends on everything going right. Jesus' peace holds even when everything goes wrong. It is a gift that no one can take from you.

Who's speaking

Jesus offers His peace as a parting gift.

Where it sits in the story

Of all the things Jesus could have left His followers, He chose peace. Not wealth, not power, not an easy life, but peace. A peace so deep that it holds you steady in the middle of the storm. He began this chapter with 'don't be troubled' and ends it the same way.

The scholarly reading

Jesus bequeaths His peace (eirēnē), distinct from the world's peace. The Hebrew concept of shalom underlying this promise encompasses wholeness, well-being, and right relationship with God. The repetition of 'do not be troubled' forms an inclusio with verse 1.

Language and setting

The peace Jesus gives is not the absence of conflict but the presence of divine shalom rooted in relationship with God. The farewell gift of peace was customary, but Jesus' peace is qualitatively different from any earthly peace.

Voice

Jesus bestows His peace as a farewell gift to His disciples.

Significance

As His farewell gift, Jesus leaves the disciples His own peace, not the fragile, circumstantial peace the world offers, but the deep, unshakable shalom that flows from union with God. It is the antidote to the troubled hearts He addressed at the beginning of the chapter.

25All this I have spoken to you while I am still with you.

26But 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.

27Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.

28You heard Me say, ‘I am going away, and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I.

29And now I have told you before it happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe.

Read all of John 14 — In the upper room, Jesus comforts his terrified disciples. He promises them a place, a path, and a presence that will never leave them.