John 14:17

τ. πν. τ. ἀληθ. This expression confirms the rendering ‘Advocate.’ Truth is more closely connected with the idea of advocating a cause than with that of comforting. Comp. John 15:26; John 16:13; 1 John 5:6. The Paraclete is the Spirit of Truth as the Bearer of the Divine revelation, bringing truth home to the hearts of men. In 1 John 4:6 it is opposed to the ‘spirit of error.’ Comp. 1 Corinthians 2:12. On κόσμος see on John 1:10.

οὐ θεωρεῖ. Beholdeth Him not, neither cometh to know Him, because the Spirit and ‘the things of the Spirit’ must be ‘spiritually discerned’ (1 Corinthians 2:14). The world may have intelligence, scientific investigation, criticism, learning; but not by these is the Spirit of Truth contemplated and recognised; rather by humility, self-investigation, faith, and love. Note the presents γινώσκετε, μένει, ἐστίν. The Spirit is in the Apostles already, though not in the fulness of Pentecost. Note also (in John 14:16-17) the definite personality of the Spirit, distinct from the Son who promises Him and the Father who gives Him: and the three prepositions; the Advocate is with us for fellowship (μετά); abides by our side to defend us (παρά); is in us as a source of power to each individually (ἐν).