John 16:25

In the second place, Christ insists upon, and amplifieth that encouragement which was first propounded, v. 23. concerning increase in knowledge. And as there he propounded the promise in opposition to their present necessity of asking questions; So here it is propounded in opposition to his present way of teaching, And that he would not speak to them in proverbs, or, parables as formerly, but would fully and plainly reveal the Father to them. As for these things, which Christ saith he spake in proverbs, they are not to be restricted to the immediatly preceding purpose in this Chapter, but should be more generally extended, to the most part of his doctrine hitherto particularly, in this last Sermon; much whereof they did not understand, as appeared in their frequent objections, reasonings, and questions. He saith, he hath spoken these things in proverbs, or, parables; whereby we are not to understand any dark or aenigmatick speeches, as if his doctrine had been obscure in it selfe; for his doctrine was plain in it selfe, and what he spake darkly to the multitude, he explained to them. But, the meaning is, partly, that much of that he spake, however it was clear in it selfe, yet to them it seemed as obscure as if it had been all parables, and so appears from v 16, 17, &c. but after the Spirits coming, he was to speak plainly and fully, even in respect of their conception and understanding. Partly, that Christ in regard of their weaknesse and incapacity, had but briefly touched many things, which would be but dark to them till the Spirit should come, as v. 12, 13. and had often made use of similitudes and parables, in this Sermon, and at other times; whereby, albeit he condescended to their capacity, yet, (as he saith chap 3.12.) he spake but earthly things and not heavenly; that is, pointed out heavenly things by earthly resemblances, which did eclipse much of the lustre these truths should have, when he should teach them plainly by his Spirit. Whence learn, 1. As clearest truths will be but dark mysteries, even to disciples, till the Spirit enlighten them; So Christ lets out light by degrees, and teacheth according to his peoples capacity; for, both these are held out in this acknowledgment, These things have I spoken to you in proverbs. 2. It is the comfort of Saints, that what measure of light and instruction they need, and yet want at one time, it is but reserved for another; for, it sweetens their case to whom he had spoken in proverbs, that the time cometh when I shall no more speak to you (saith he) in proverbs. 3. The clear and full manifestation of saving truth was communicate by the Spirit to the Apostles, and by them to the Church; for, it is at that time, I shall shew you plainly (saith he) of the Father. 4. The great and fundamental doctrine of the Gospel, revealed by the Spirit, is, the knowledge of God as the Father of Christ, and our Father in him; and consequently, of the mystery of Redemption; for, this is the doctrine he will teach, I shall shew you plainly of the Father.