What does John 16:19 mean?

Explanation

John 16:19 reflects a moment of deep emotional connection and communication between Jesus and his disciples.

Jesus, sensing his disciples' confusion and curiosity about previous statements regarding his departure and return, openly addresses their unspoken concerns.

Essentially, Jesus predicts his death and resurrection, alluding to the short period when he will be taken from them (his death and burial), and the subsequent joy of seeing him again (his resurrection).

The "a little while" phrases signify the transitory nature of the events to come and encourage the disciples to maintain faith despite the upcoming trials.

Historical Context

This verse is part of what is known as the Farewell Discourse in the Gospel of John, chapters 13-17.

This discourse occurs after the Last Supper and before Jesus's arrest and subsequent crucifixion.

The historical context is critical here, as Jesus is preparing his disciples for the imminent events of his passion and trying to comfort them, as well as provide guidance for the time when he will no longer be physically present with them.

His message is grounded in the customs and religious expectations of the Jewish people, who awaited a Messiah to deliver them.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse touches upon several significant concepts.

For some, it reflects the idea of the Messiah's suffering, death, and victorious resurrection, central to Christian soteriology (the study of salvation).

For others, it deals with the paradox of Jesus’ presence and absence , a reality that would become evident in the belief of Christ's Ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

It also speaks to the concept of 'already and not yet,' a theme in Christian eschatology where the kingdom of God is both realized and expected.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, this verse can provide comfort to those going through periods of difficulty or absence of clarity.

It reminds believers that suffering or confusion can be temporary and that faith can sustain them through such 'little whiles.' Furthermore, it encourages individuals to converse openly about their internal struggles, as Jesus fostered open communication with his disciples.

Cross-References

• John 14:19: "Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also."
• John 16:16: "A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father."
• John 16:22: "And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you."

Language Study

In this verse, the phrase "a little while" translates from the Greek "mikron", which implies a short time period.

The Greek verb "theoreo" for "ye shall see me" implies not just physical sight, but also perception and understanding. The use of "oida" for "knew" suggests an intuitive knowledge that Jesus had of his disciples' thoughts, hinting at his divine insight.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Within the Jewish context, there's a reflection of the Messianic prophecies, particularly from Isaiah 53, which speak of the suffering servant.

Comparatively, in other ancient myths, such as those of the dying and rising gods (e.g., Osiris in Egyptian mythology), there are motifs of death and resurrection.

However, in the Christian narrative, the emphasis is on historical reality and theological significance rather than cyclical myth.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the concepts of "seeing" and "not seeing" could be interpreted metaphorically in the light of quantum physics, where the observer's relationship to a phenomenon changes its state.

Moreover, the discussion of short temporal periods may evoke considerations of subjective time, a field explored in psychology, where emotional states affect perception of duration.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer a range of interpretations for John 16:19.

Raymond E.

Brown, in his commentary, sees it as part of the development of Jesus’ farewell and the modulation of misunderstanding to understanding by the disciples.

D.A.

Carson, another biblical scholar, interprets Jesus’ knowing as an insight into human hearts, emphasizing Jesus's divine omniscience.

Matthew Henry's commentary focuses on the comfort that comes from Jesus revealing himself after sorrow.

Henry's interpretation is pastoral, seeing it as an encouragement to Christians facing trials.