John 16:26

"“I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. But the time is coming when I will no more speak to you in figures of speech, but will tell you plainly about the Father."

Key Reflection

Jesus uses this statement to indicate that his teachings and parables, which were necessary for their understanding at the time, would soon be superseded by clearer revelations as the Holy Spirit works through them. This transition reflects the coming of the fullness of the gospel message in the days ahead, where truths previously hidden would become more openly revealed.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 26. I say not unto you that I will pray, &c. In Joh 14:16, Jesus says that he would pray the Father, and that he would send the Comforter. In chapter 17, he offered a memorable prayer for them. In Heb 7:25, it is said that Jesus ever liveth to make intercession for us; and it is constantly represented in the New Testament that it is by his intercession in heaven now that we obtain the blessings of pardon, peace, strength, and salvation. Comp. Heb 9:24. This declaration of Jesus, then, does not mean that he would not intercede for them, but that there was no need then of his mentioning it to them again.

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