King James Bible
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me."
Jesus uses this solemn double affirmation to emphasize the critical importance of what follows. This phrase appears frequently in John's Gospel when Jesus reveals profound truths about divine authority and relationships. Jesus establishes that accepting his commissioned representatives equals accepting him personally. This principle elevates the disciples' future ministry, assuring them that their reception or rejection directly reflects people's response to Christ himself. The chain of divine authority extends further: receiving Jesus means receiving God the Father. This statement, spoken during the Last Supper after washing the disciples' feet, underscores the unity between Father and Son while dignifying humble service done in Christ's name.