John 14:16
What does John 14:16 mean?
A plain-English look at John 14:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 14:16 means
Jesus pledges to ask the Father to give “another Comforter” to be with them forever. “Another” implies that He Himself has been their Helper; the Spirit will continue His ministry. Comforter includes helper, advocate, and counselor—One who comes alongside to strengthen, guide, and defend. The promise of “forever” counters the fear of abandonment; unlike Jesus’ visible presence which will soon be withdrawn, the Spirit’s presence will be enduring. This gift is from the Father at Jesus’ request, showing Trinitarian harmony. The Spirit’s companionship ensures that obedience from love is possible, and that Jesus’ mission continues through empowered disciples.
John 14:16 in context
John 14 — I Am the Way
On the night before his crucifixion Jesus comforts his disciples. He is going to prepare a place for them; he is the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but by him. He promises another Comforter — the Holy Spirit — who will dwell in them and bring his words to remembrance. The peace he gives is not as the world gives. Even with the cross hours away, he turns from his own sorrow to steady theirs.
- Heaven
- Exclusivity of Christ
- Holy Spirit promised
- Christ's peace
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may be with you for ever,
KJV
King James Version · 1611And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may be with you for ever,
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And I will make prayer to the Father and he will give you another Helper to be with you for ever,
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and I will ask the Father, and another Comforter He will give to you, that he may remain with you--to the age;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And I will ask the Father: and he shall give you another Paraclete, that he may abide with you for ever:
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And I will beg the Father, and he will give you another Comforter, that he may be with you for ever,
Context
Following the call to loving obedience, Jesus introduces divine provision: the Father will send another Helper at His request. This begins the extended teaching about the Spirit in the Farewell Discourse. The next verse names Him the Spirit of truth, contrasts the world’s blindness with the disciples’ knowledge, and promises an even more intimate indwelling. These details answer the anxiety raised by Jesus’ departure, assuring that God’s presence and guidance will not cease but, in a new way, deepen among His followers.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 9:31
So the church throughout all Judæa and Galilee and Samaria had peace, being edified; and, walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, was multiplied.
- Acts 13:52
And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
- John 16:7
Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I go, I will send him unto you.
- Philippians 2:1
If there is therefore any exhortation in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any tender mercies and compassions,
- John 14:18
I will not leave you desolate: I come unto you.
- Romans 8:34
who is he that condemneth? It is Christ Jesus that died, yea rather, that was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Sermon ideas from John 14:16
Angles a pastor or small-group leader might preach or teach from this passage, drawn from the chapter's main themes.
What John 14:16 teaches us about heaven
What John 14:16 teaches us about exclusivity of christ
What John 14:16 teaches us about holy spirit promised
What John 14:16 teaches us about christ's peace
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