John 15:20 (KJV)

What does John 15:20 mean?

John 15:20 means that Jesus is reminding his followers that they should not expect to be treated better than he was; if people persecuted him, his followers can expect similar treatment, but if some listened to him, some will listen to them as well. Jesus uses the example of a servant and a master to show that his disciples are not above him and will share in his experiences.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples shortly before his arrest, preparing them for the challenges they will face after he is gone. He refers back to something he told them earlier, using the image of a servant (meaning disciple or follower) and a lord (meaning master or teacher). Jesus is setting their expectations: just as he faced opposition and rejection, so will those who follow him, but there is also the possibility that some will respond positively to their message.

The Greek behind John 15:20

• The word for "servant" is δοῦλος (doulos), which means a bondservant or slave—someone who is not free but serves a master. This highlights the humility and dependence Jesus expects from his followers.
• The word for "persecuted" is διώκω (diōkō), which means to pursue or harass, often with the intent to harm. Jesus is warning that the same kind of active opposition he faced will come to his disciples.
• The word for "kept" is τηρέω (tēreō), meaning to guard, observe, or pay careful attention to. When Jesus says, "if they have kept my saying," he means that some people did listen and hold onto his teachings, so the disciples can expect a similar mixed response.

Why John 15:20 matters

• John 15:20 clears up the idea that following Jesus would lead to an easy or comfortable life; instead, it sets a realistic expectation of hardship and opposition.
• The verse connects the disciples’ experience directly to Jesus’ own, emphasizing their close relationship with him and the shared path they walk.
• This verse helps frame the wider passage, where Jesus is preparing his followers for the reality of being sent into a world that may not always welcome their message, but also reminding them that their work will not be in vain.