What does John 16:7 mean?

Explanation

John 16:7 underlines a critical moment in the narrative of Jesus’ mission according to the Gospel of John.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the necessity of His departure.

On a literal level, Jesus is saying that His physical absence is necessary for the coming of the Comforter, also known as the Advocate, the Holy Spirit.

The deeper meaning suggests the transition from Jesus' earthly ministry to the era of the Holy Spirit.

His physical presence is limited to time and space, while the Spirit's influence is universal and perpetual.

It assures the disciples that they will not be abandoned but instead receive spiritual guidance and empowerment through the Holy Spirit.

Historical Context

John 16:7 is part of Jesus’ farewell discourse (John 14-16), delivered to His disciples during the Last Supper, which is the final meal Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion.

The text is set in a period of high tension and impending peril, just before Jesus is arrested.

This context is critical as it sets the stage for the transition of Jesus' public earthly ministry to the giving of the Holy Spirit to believers after Jesus’ ascension.

Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure and the persecution they will face, emphasizing the necessity of their reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Theological Insights

From a Trinitarian Christian viewpoint, this verse reinforces the belief in the distinct persons of the Holy Trinity where Jesus (the Son) promises to send the Holy Spirit (the Comforter).

For many theologians, this is an affirmation of the continuing presence and activity of God through the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church following Jesus' ascension.

For non-Trinitarian perspectives, this passage may be interpreted to emphasize God's ongoing guidance through His spirit rather than a separate person of the Trinity.

The promise of the "Comforter" is considered as a pivotal element in understanding the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life, being a source of truth, guidance, and support.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of John 16:7 include drawing comfort from the knowledge that Jesus promises not to leave believers comfortless.

The presence of the Holy Spirit is seen as a personal guide for ethical decision-making, navigating life’s challenges, and spiritual growth.

For modern believers, this promise is a source of hope and encouragement, suggesting that through prayer and meditation, they can seek and receive guidance and support.

Cross-References

• John 14:16, 26: "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; ...

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you."

• John 15:26: "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:"
• Acts 2:33: "Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear."

Language Study

Key terms in John 16:7 in their original Greek:

• "Expedient" (συμφέρει, sympherei): means advantageous or beneficial.
• "Comforter" (παράκλητος, parakletos): means advocate, helper, or counselor.
• "I depart" (ἀπέλθω, apelthō): implies going away, or leaving.

The language emphasizes the benefit to the disciples of Jesus’ departure and defines the role of the Holy Spirit as an advocate or helper who is called to be beside the believers.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing John 16:7 with other religious traditions, one might look at figures or concepts that bear similarity to the role of the Holy Spirit.

For instance, in various mythologies, there are gods or spirits that act as intermediaries between the divine and the mortal realm, such as Hermes in Greek mythology.

In some strands of Judaism, there's the concept of a divine presence or spirit known as the Shekhinah.

However, the specific role of the Holy Spirit as described in Christianity is unique to Christian theology and is distinct from these other concepts.

Scientific Perspectives

The discussion about the Holy Spirit presented in John 16:7 intersects less with scientific perspectives and more with the realms of personal faith, spirituality, and experiences beyond empirical evidence.

Since the concept of the Holy Spirit is metaphysical, it is not subject to scientific measurement or empirical validation.

Contemporary dialogue between science and religion might explore the psychological and sociological impacts of belief in a comforting spiritual presence.

Commentaries

Commentators have provided varied insights on John 16:7:

• Traditional exegetical commentary often highlights the perplexity of the disciples facing the departure of Jesus and the importance of the Holy Spirit's guidance in the ongoing mission of the Church.
• Some scholars point to the literary role of this verse in the Johannine community, wherein the promise of the Holy Spirit would have offered encouragement and legitimacy to early Christians.
• Modern theological commentary may discuss the implications of Jesus’ statement for understanding the Trinity and the relational dynamics between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
• Practical commentary often revolves around the experiential aspect for believers, emphasizing the Holy Spirit's personal relationship with each individual.