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Book of John - Chapter 14 - Verse 17

14:17
Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

Meaning

This verse from the book of John in the Bible speaks about the Spirit of truth, which is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is described as someone who the world cannot receive because they do not see or know Him. This indicates that only those who believe in God and have a relationship with Him can receive the Holy Spirit. The verse emphasizes the special relationship that believers have with the Holy Spirit, as He dwells with them and will be in them. This means that the Holy Spirit is not only present around believers but also within them, guiding, comforting, and empowering them. The Holy Spirit is described as the Spirit of truth, pointing to the role He plays in revealing God's truth to believers. Overall, this verse highlights the intimate connection that believers have with the Holy Spirit and the importance of having faith and knowledge of Him in order to receive His presence and guidance in their lives.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples about the Holy Spirit, whom he refers to as the Spirit of truth. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the Holy Spirit as a guiding, empowering, and comforting presence for believers. Jesus contrasts the disciples' relationship with the Holy Spirit to that of the world, noting that the world cannot receive the Spirit because it does not see or know Him. This highlights the spiritual discernment and intimacy with God that believers have. The word "receive" implies an openness and receptiveness to the Holy Spirit's work in one's life. Jesus reassures his disciples that they know the Spirit because He dwells with them and promises that the Spirit will be in them. This foreshadows the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, where the disciples would be filled with the Spirit's power. Overall, this verse underscores the special relationship believers have with the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to live out their faith boldly and authentically.

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