EXEGETICAL INTERPRETATION OF JOHN 14:17

Abstract

The New Testament text has a number of mysteries which are often difficult to comprehend. Some of these mysteries include the Trinitarian doctrine, Jesus’ presence in the celebration of the Eucharist, the virgin birth, incarnation, predestination, and the origin and evolution of man. These mysteries have led biblical and religious scholars to pitch their tents with varied schools of thought with an unending debate. This paper centres on the exegetical interpretation of John 14:17 and seeks to determine the significance of the statement in John 14:17. Who the Holy Spirit is as promised in the text? Does the Holy Spirit as promised by Christ in the text to His disciples means a promise of Himself? What functions would the Holy Spirit play in the life and activities of Christ’s disciples? The paper employs the historical-critical method of biblical exegesis and argues that Jesus’ own words provide intense clarity for those who still do not understand that He and the Father are one. This paper maintains that Christ’s presence is the promised Holy Spirit to His disciples. The paper concludes that needless of much argument about the deity and personality of Christ as the scripture is clear in the dynamics of the Trinitarian doctrine.