He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.

JOHN 14:24KJV
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John 14:24 (KJV)

What does John 14:24 mean?

John 14:24 says that someone who does not love Jesus will not follow or obey what he teaches, and that the message Jesus shares is not his own, but comes from God the Father who sent him. This verse highlights the close connection between loving Jesus, listening to his words, and recognizing their divine source.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking to his disciples during the Last Supper, preparing them for his departure. He explains that true love for him is shown by keeping his teachings, and he stresses that his words carry the authority of God the Father. This helps the disciples—and readers—see that rejecting Jesus’ message is ultimately rejecting God’s message.

The Greek behind John 14:24

  • The word for "loveth" is ἀγαπάω (agapaō), which often means a deep, committed love, not just affection. Here, it points to a love shown by action, not just feeling.
  • "Keepeth" is τηρέω (tēreō), meaning to guard, observe, or hold fast. It suggests more than just hearing Jesus’ words; it means actively holding onto them and living by them.
  • The word for "sayings" and "word" is λόγος (logos), which can mean a message, teaching, or even a reasoned statement. Jesus uses it to refer to his teachings as something weighty and meaningful.
  • "Sent" is πέμπω (pempō), which means to send with a purpose. Jesus is reminding the disciples that he is on a mission from the Father, and his words carry that authority.

Why John 14:24 matters

  • John 14:24 clarifies that love for Jesus is not just a feeling but is shown by obeying his teachings, connecting belief and action.
  • The verse emphasizes that Jesus’ message is not independent or self-made; it comes directly from God the Father, underlining Jesus’ unique role as God’s messenger.
  • This verse helps explain the seriousness of rejecting Jesus’ words, since to do so is to reject the very words of God, not just the teachings of a human leader.

Where else these words appear

“keepeth” Greek G5083 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 19:17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.
  • Acts 12:5 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.
  • 2 Peter 3:7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

“mine” Greek G1699 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
  • John 8:56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

“sent” Greek G3992 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • John 7:16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
  • Acts 19:31 And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.

“loveth” Greek G25 · used in 109 verses

  • Matthew 5:43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
  • John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
  • 2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.