by Ester yusufu | 21 April 2025 08:46 pm04
Question: When Jesus said, “None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’” in John 16:5, what did He mean?
Answer:
Let’s explore the context and theology behind this statement:
John 16:5-7
“But now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things.
But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.”
On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus spoke to His disciples about His imminent departure. Theologically, this moment is pivotal. Jesus’ going “to him who sent me” refers to His return to the Father (cf. John 14:28). This signals the completion of His earthly mission of redemption.
The disciples’ failure to ask “Where are you going?” reflects their deep sorrow and confusion. Their grief was so overwhelming that it blocked their natural curiosity and concern. This illustrates how emotional distress can cloud spiritual understanding. They were focused on the loss they were about to experience rather than the divine plan unfolding.
Jesus’ departure is necessary for the coming of the Holy Spirit—the Advocate or Helper (Greek: Parakletos). The Holy Spirit’s role (cf. John 14:16-17, 26) is to continue Jesus’ work on earth by guiding, teaching, and empowering the disciples for ministry. Jesus assures them that His physical absence will be replaced by the Spirit’s presence in a new, intimate way.
This transition from Jesus’ physical presence to the Spirit’s indwelling presence fulfills Jesus’ promise of ongoing fellowship with believers (John 14:18). The Spirit acts as a comforter and guide, enabling believers to live out the gospel boldly.
When the Spirit came at Pentecost (Acts 2), the disciples were transformed. Their sorrow turned into courage and joy—a pattern for all believers who receive the Spirit.
Have you received the Holy Spirit?
The Bible teaches that receiving the Spirit comes through faith in Jesus, repentance, and baptism, symbolizing the washing away of sin and new life in Christ.
Acts 2:38-39
“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.’”
Repentance means turning from sin and turning toward God. Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). Receiving the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live transformed lives and fulfill God’s mission.
If you haven’t yet, put your trust in Jesus, repent sincerely, and be baptized as an outward expression of your new faith—and the Spirit will come to dwell in you.
May the Lord bless you and guide you by His Spirit.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2025/04/21/no-one-asks-me-where-are-you-going-what-did-jesus-mean-john-165/
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