Albert Barnes Commentary John 15:7

"If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatsoever ye will, and it shall be done unto you." — John 15:7 (ASV)

My words. My doctrine; my commandments.

Abide in you. Not only are remembered, but are allowed to remain in you as a living principle, to regulate your affections and life.

You shall ask, etc. See John 14:13. This promise had particular reference to the apostles. It is applicable to other Christians only so far as they are in circumstances similar to the apostles, and only so far as they possess their spirit.

We learn from it that it is only when we keep the commandments of Christ—only when we live by faith in him, and his words are allowed to control our conduct and affections—that our prayers will be heard. Were we perfect in all things, he would always hear us, and we would be kept from making an improper petition; but just so far as people regard iniquity in their heart, the Lord will not hear them (Psalms 66:18).