John 14:3 Meaning and Explanation
“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus promises that He will return for His own, so that we end up where He is.
The Context of John 14:3
Still the Last Supper, moments after Jesus told the disciples He goes to prepare a place for them (verse 2). Their hearts are troubled at His leaving, and He keeps unfolding the promise.
What Does John 14:3 Mean?
Jesus has just said He is going to prepare a place. Now He finishes the thought, and the heart of it is a promise to come back. I will come again, and receive you unto myself. The leaving was never the end of the story. He is going away to make ready, and then to return and gather them home. The word receive carries the warmth of welcoming someone to your side, taking them in. He pictures Himself coming personally to bring His friends where He is.
And look at where the promise lands: that where I am, there ye may be also. The goal is chiefly His own nearness. To be with Him is the whole point. Every separation His friends feared that night will one day be undone by His coming to receive them. The same Christ who went ahead will come back, and the end of it all is being together with Him for good.
John 14:3 in the Original Language
paralambano (παραλαμβάνω), 'receive' -- to take someone to oneself, to welcome a person to your side.
How to Apply John 14:3 Today
When goodbyes and distances weigh on us, this verse holds out the promise that Christ Himself will come and bring us to be where He is. The end of the story is His nearness. We can wait on that promise, made by the One who keeps His word.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 14:3
What does John 14:3 mean?
Jesus promises that He will return for His own, so that we end up where He is.
What is the context of John 14:3?
Still the Last Supper, moments after Jesus told the disciples He goes to prepare a place for them (verse 2). Their hearts are troubled at His leaving, and He keeps unfolding the promise.
How can I apply John 14:3 today?
When goodbyes and distances weigh on us, this verse holds out the promise that Christ Himself will come and bring us to be where He is. The end of the story is His nearness. We can wait on that promise, made by the One who keeps His word.