John 14:16

John 14:16, in plain English

Jesus promises something extraordinary: He will ask the Father to send another Helper, the Holy Spirit, who will be with you forever. You will never be alone.

Why it's here

The word 'another' means 'another of the same kind.' The Spirit is like Jesus, a Comforter, a Guide, an Advocate. And unlike Jesus' physical presence, the Spirit will never leave.

Who's speaking

Jesus makes one of the most important promises in all of Scripture.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus is leaving, but He is not leaving them empty. He promises a replacement of the same quality: the Holy Spirit. And here is the upgrade: the Spirit will not just be with them for three years; He will be with them forever.

The scholarly reading

Jesus promises to ask the Father to send 'another Advocate' (allon paraklēton), who will remain with them forever. The term paraklētos (advocate, helper, comforter) appears only in Johannine literature.

Language and setting

The word 'another' (allon, of the same kind) implies the Spirit is an Advocate of the same nature as Jesus. The Spirit's 'forever' presence contrasts with Jesus' temporary physical presence, ensuring the disciples will never be alone.

Voice

Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit as another Advocate.

Significance

Jesus makes the pivotal promise of the farewell discourse: He will ask the Father to send another Helper, the Holy Spirit, who will be with the disciples forever. Unlike Jesus' physical presence, which is ending, the Spirit's presence will be permanent and internal.

14If you ask Me for anything in My name, I will do it.

15If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

16And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—

17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you do know Him, for He abides with you and will be in you.

18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

Read all of John 14 — In the upper room, Jesus comforts his terrified disciples. He promises them a place, a path, and a presence that will never leave them.