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Book of John - Chapter 16 - Verse 19

16:19
Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye inquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?

Meaning

In this verse, Jesus is addressing his disciples and sensing their confusion about his previous statement. He is referring to his impending crucifixion and resurrection. By saying "A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me," Jesus is preparing his disciples for the difficult times ahead when they will witness his death and burial. However, he also gives them hope by hinting at his resurrection when they will see him again. This verse serves as a foreshadowing of the events to come, highlighting the temporary separation between Jesus and his disciples before his triumphant return. It portrays the cyclical nature of Jesus' ministry, emphasizing the importance of faith and patience during challenging times, knowing that ultimately, they will be reunited with their Lord.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that Jesus is hinting at his impending death and resurrection. By saying "A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me," he is foreshadowing the events that are to come. The disciples may have been confused by this cryptic statement, but Jesus, being aware of their thoughts, clarifies their doubts by addressing the situation directly. This verse showcases Jesus' deep understanding of human nature and his ability to perceive the unspoken questions of his followers. Through this interaction, Jesus also demonstrates his authority and divine knowledge, solidifying his position as the Son of God. The phrase "A little while" could also be interpreted as a reminder of the temporary nature of human life on earth, with the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus. Overall, this verse highlights the close relationship between Jesus and his disciples, as well as the profound theological truths embedded in his teachings.

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