Why does the world not "see Him or know Him" according to John 14:17? Setting the Scene • Jesus is preparing the disciples for His departure (John 14). • He promises “the Spirit of truth” who will live in them and be their Helper. • Problem statement: “The world cannot receive Him … because it neither sees Him nor knows Him” (John 14:17). The Spirit of Truth vs. the World • “Spirit of truth” = the Holy Spirit, fully divine, sent by the Father and the Son. • “The world” = humanity organized in rebellion against God (1 John 2:15-17). • Two opposing realms: light vs. darkness (John 3:19-20). Why the World Cannot See • Sight here is spiritual perception, not physical eyesight. • Hearts blinded: “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 4:4). • Sin causes darkness: “Everyone practicing evil hates the light” (John 3:20). • No indwelling Spirit means no inner illumination (1 Corinthians 2:14). • Result: the Spirit’s presence and work remain invisible to those outside Christ. Why the World Cannot Know • Biblical knowing = intimate, relational knowledge, not mere facts. • Relationship broken by sin (Isaiah 59:2). • Hostility toward God’s law (Romans 8:7). • Lack of new birth: “Unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom” (John 3:3). • Without regeneration, the world remains estranged, so personal knowledge of the Spirit is impossible. What Makes the Difference for Believers • “But you do know Him, for He abides with you and will be in you” (John 14:17b). • Indwelling: Acts 2 records fulfillment at Pentecost. • Adoption: believers have received “the Spirit of sonship” (Romans 8:15). • Illumination: “His anointing teaches you about all things” (1 John 2:27). • Presence brings assurance, guidance, power for holy living. Other Passages that Echo the Point • 1 Corinthians 2:14—“The natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit … they are foolishness to him.” • Ephesians 4:18—“They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God.” • John 1:10-12—He was in the world, yet the world did not know Him; but those who received Him were given the right to become God’s children. Takeaways for Today • Expect spiritual blindness in unbelievers; arguments alone cannot open eyes—only the Spirit can. • Pray and witness, trusting God to regenerate hearts. • Treasure the Spirit’s indwelling presence as proof of belonging to Christ. • Walk in the light so the world may glimpse the unseen Spirit through your life (Matthew 5:16). |
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