What is the meaning of John 16:7? But I tell you the truth • Jesus prefaces His promise with an iron-clad guarantee. When the One who is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6) says, “I tell you the truth,” every doubt must fade. • Earlier He had assured His disciples, “If it were not so, I would have told you” (John 14:2). Here He does the same, anchoring their hearts in His perfect reliability (John 8:31-32; 1 Timothy 6:13). it is for your benefit that I am going away • The disciples dreaded Jesus’ departure, yet He declares it “profitable” for them. His physical absence would usher in greater spiritual presence and power. • After the resurrection He repeated, “Rejoice that I am going to the Father” (John 14:28). Only by leaving could He prepare a place for them (John 14:2-3) and secure their eternal advocacy (Romans 8:34). • What felt like loss would turn into lasting gain, just as “you will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy” (John 16:22). Unless I go away • The plan of redemption required not only the cross and resurrection but also the ascension. • Without returning to the Father, Jesus could not take His rightful seat of authority (Hebrews 9:24; Philippians 2:9-11) or pour out the gift promised long beforehand (Luke 24:49). • His going was therefore non-negotiable—an essential step, not an optional detour. the Advocate will not come to you • “Advocate” (Paraklete) describes the Holy Spirit as Counselor, Comforter, Helper, and legal representative. • Jesus had already introduced Him: “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever” (John 14:16-17). • The Spirit’s unique, indwelling ministry could not begin until Christ’s earthly mission was complete (John 14:26; Acts 1:4-5). • This is not a limitation on the Spirit but a divine ordering: first the Son finishes the work; then the Spirit applies it. but if I go • The condition is met—He did go, ascending visibly before their eyes (Acts 1:9-11; Luke 24:51). • His exaltation fulfills Psalm 110:1, placing every enemy under His feet and positioning Him to dispense heavenly gifts (Ephesians 4:8). • Because the “if” became reality, everything that follows is certain. I will send Him to you • The risen Lord kept His word. “Having been exalted to the right hand of God, He has poured out what you now see and hear” (Acts 2:33). • The Spirit was not merely released in a general sense; He was sent “to you”—personally, individually, collectively—to indwell, empower, teach, and remind (John 14:26; Galatians 4:6). • From Pentecost onward, every believer enjoys what the first disciples could only anticipate: the abiding presence of God within (John 7:39). summary John 16:7 assures believers that Jesus’ departure was not a setback but a strategic victory. By ascending, He secured our salvation, our heavenly home, and the indwelling Advocate who comforts, convicts, guides, and empowers. His promise stands fulfilled, inviting us to walk each day in confident dependence on the Spirit He lovingly sent. |
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