New Testament · Gospel

John 16:25

Sorrow Turned to Joy

I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. An hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you this way, but will tell you plainly about the Father. John 16:25 · Berean Standard Bible

What It Means

John 16:25, in plain English

Jesus admits He's been speaking in riddles and metaphors, but He promises a time is coming when He'll tell you about the Father in plain, clear words.

Why it's here

The disciples have been struggling to follow Jesus' figurative language all evening. He reassures them that clarity is on the way—the Holy Spirit will make everything make sense.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks with honesty and anticipation to His friends.

Where it sits in the story

Jesus acknowledges what the disciples have been feeling—it's hard to follow. But He promises the fog will lift, and they'll understand the Father clearly.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Jesus acknowledges He has been speaking in figurative language (paroimiai) and promises a coming time of plain, direct revelation about the Father.

Language and setting

The Greek 'paroimiai' refers to veiled or proverbial speech, distinct from 'parabole.' Jesus anticipates the post-resurrection and Pentecost era when the Spirit will illuminate His teachings with clarity.

Voice

Jesus speaks self-referentially about His own teaching method.

Significance

Jesus draws a line between the present moment of veiled teaching and a coming era of transparent revelation. The Spirit's coming at Pentecost will make everything clear.

In context

John 16:23–27

23In that day you will no longer ask Me anything. Truly, truly, I tell you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.

24Until now you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.

25I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. An hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you this way, but will tell you plainly about the Father.

26In that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf.

27For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God.

Read all of John 16 — Jesus warns of persecution and promises the Spirit of truth. A woman in labor forgets her anguish when the child arrives — and so will they.

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