Being confused by Jesus’ assertion that He was going away and returning to them, they asked: “…’Lord, what then has happened that You are going to disclose Yourself to us and not to the world?” (22b). Jesus’ promised presence was to those distinguished by their love for Him as evidenced in keeping His word. These will receive the Father’s love and presence: “…’We will come to him and make Our abode with him.’” (23c). Those who do not keep Jesus’ Word are, in fact, rejecting the Father who sent Him to us. Genuine disciples are distinguished from the mere religious world by the abiding presence of God and His Son in their lives. To these He says: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” (27). Are we overcoming fearfulness by obedience God’s Word and receiving His presence & peace? Without obedience to God’s Word, we become blind to our own sinfulness and bring mere religion without the power of transformation. We would then be like the Pharisees and Sadducees in modern day Christianity.