John 16:25 (KJV)

What does John 16:25 mean?

John 16:25 means that Jesus has been speaking to his disciples using figurative language or comparisons, but a time is coming when he will speak to them openly and clearly about God the Father. Jesus promises that soon his teachings will be direct, without the use of veiled sayings.

In this verse, Jesus is talking to his closest followers during his final conversation with them before his arrest. He acknowledges that much of what he has said so far has been in "proverbs"—that is, in ways that are not always easy to understand. Jesus reassures them that soon, after certain events unfold, he will reveal the truth about God plainly, so they will not be confused or left guessing.

The Greek behind John 16:25

• The word translated "proverbs" is παραβολαῖς (parabolais, from G3942), which often means figures of speech, comparisons, or sayings that are not straightforward. This highlights that Jesus' earlier teaching style was sometimes indirect or symbolic.
• The word for "plainly" is παρρησίᾳ (parrēsia, from G3954), which means openly, frankly, or with boldness. This shows that Jesus is promising a shift to clear, unambiguous teaching about the Father.
• The verb "shew" is ἀναγγελῶ (anangelō, from G312), meaning to announce or make known. This emphasizes that Jesus will actively reveal or explain things about God, not just hint at them.

Why John 16:25 matters

• John 16:25 clarifies that Jesus' earlier teachings were sometimes hard to grasp because they were given in figurative language, which helps explain why the disciples often seemed confused.
• The verse sets up an important transition: after Jesus' death and resurrection, his followers will receive clearer understanding, especially through the coming of the Holy Spirit, as described later in the chapter.
• This verse reassures readers that God’s truth is meant to be understood, and that Jesus intends for his followers to have a direct and open relationship with the Father, not one clouded by mystery.