John 16 - Introduction

We are still in the first part of the second main division of the Gospel, the inner Glorification of Christ in His last discourses (13 17). We now enter upon the third division of this first part (see introductory note to chap. 13).

The Promise of the Paraclete and of Christ's Return

As has been remarked already, the subjects are not kept distinct; they cross and interlace, like the strands in a rope. But the following divisions may conduce to clearness; 1. The World and the Paraclete(John 16:1-11); 2. The Disciples and the Paraclete(John 16:12-15); The Sorrow of Christ s Departure turned into Joy by His Return(John 16:16-24); 4. Summary and Conclusion of the Discourses(John 16:25-33).