John 16:25-33

1. That the time referred to in John 16:25 ff. is the same with that described in John 16:20-24 is indicated by the fact that the same great characteristic of the period mentioned is here set forth as in the previous verses: the communication with the Father in the name of Christ. It is also indicated by the fact that after the ταῦτα λελάληκα of John 16:25 there is no distinct suggestion of a new subject, such as we find in John 15:12; John 15:18.

2. The force of the words καὶ οὐ λέγω κ. τ. λ. of John 16:26 is undoubtedly this: that the presentation of a request from Himself would not be necessary, because the Father would have an independent personal love for them on the ground of their acceptance of Him and love towards Him. The words “I do not say,” instead of an expression such as “I deny that I will, or say that I will not,” as well as the very nature of the relation between Jesus and the disciples we may add, the indications elsewhere given of Jesus as an intercessor show that He does not mean to deny that He will thus ask the Father for them. He did not need, indeed, to assure them of this, for they could not doubt that it would be so. But the one thought here is, that they might have confidence, when approaching the Father in prayer, that He had a personal love for them, and, by reason of this, would be ready to answer their petitions and this would be a vital element in their future permanent joy.

3. The words of the disciples in John 16:29-30, which have a special reference to John 16:28, in its connection with what precedes, are a new declaration and measure of their belief. Coming, as this declaration does, at the close of the discourses and conversations of Jesus in chs. 13-16, it must be regarded as their profession of faith in view of this latest and most remarkable σημεῖον, in the sphere, not of works, but of words; and, by its position and its contents taken together, it shows an increase in their belief beyond any former utterance.

4. In John 16:31-32 Jesus acknowledges their faith (ἄρτι πιστεύετε is an affirmation, not a question), and, at the same time, reminds them that it is not yet perfected. It will show its remaining weakness as the approaching evils and dangers come. Therefore He has spoken to them all the words of this discourse (the ταῦτα λελάληκα of John 16:33 points back to the whole of chs. 15, 16), that they may have peace and good courage in the midst of tribulation, being assured that He has overcome the world.