John 15:22
If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.
John 15:22
Jesus states a stark consequence: had he not come and spoken to them, they would have sin; but now they have no cloak for their sin. This is a strong statement about revelation and moral accountability. The “cloak” metaphor evokes shame, exposure, and the need for covering. By speaking plainly, Jesus exposes sin’s root and demands a response. The verse sits within the context of prophetic witness and divine self-disclosure; it marks the decisive moment when human beings are without excuse for their sin because God has revealed himself in Jesus.
Theologically, this verse emphasizes the sufficiency of revelation and the seriousness of human responsibility. It also highlights the problem of sin in the absence of revelation, contrasted with the accountability that comes with receiving revelation.
In practical terms: exposure to truth demands a decision. Reflect on areas of life where you might be “covered” by excuses rather than surrendered to the truth. Seek Jesus’ correction with humility; confess, repent, and adjust behavior to align with his will.
Cross-References: Romans 1:20; John 3:19–21; Hebrews 4:12; James 4:17