New Testament
John 16:10
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regarding righteousness, because I am going to my Father and you will see me no more;
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Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
What John 16:10 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus speaks about righteousness in the context of His departure to the Father. He emphasizes that His ascension will change how His followers perceive righteousness. Before His resurrection, righteousness was often understood through the law and religious practices. However, with Jesus going to the Father, He establishes a new understanding of righteousness based on faith in Him. This shift signifies that righteousness is not just about following rules but about a relationship with Jesus, who embodies true righteousness. His absence will challenge the disciples to rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance in understanding and living out righteousness. This verse highlights the transformative nature of Jesus' mission and the new covenant He establishes, which redefines how believers relate to God and understand their own righteousness.
How to apply John 16:10 to your life
As believers, we are called to understand righteousness not merely as adherence to rules but as a relationship with Jesus. This means seeking to live in a way that reflects His character and teachings, relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength in our daily lives.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Comforts His Disciples (John 14:1–16:33)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 16:10 mean?
John 16:10 refers to Jesus explaining that His departure to the Father will change the understanding of righteousness. It signifies a shift from a law-based view of righteousness to one based on faith in Him.
What is the meaning of righteousness in John 16:10?
In John 16:10, righteousness is presented as a relationship with Jesus rather than mere adherence to the law. His ascension emphasizes that true righteousness comes from faith in Him and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
How does John 16:10 relate to the Holy Spirit?
John 16:10 indicates that after Jesus' ascension, the Holy Spirit will guide believers in understanding and living out righteousness, emphasizing reliance on the Spirit for spiritual growth.
Why is Jesus' ascension important in John 16:10?
Jesus' ascension is crucial in John 16:10 because it marks the beginning of a new understanding of righteousness, shifting the focus from law to faith in Him, which transforms the believer's relationship with God.
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