New Testament
John 16:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
On that day you will ask in my name, and I am not saying to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf,
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At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you:
What John 16:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is preparing His disciples for a time when they will directly communicate with God the Father through prayer in His name. He emphasizes that they will have the privilege to ask for what they need without needing Him to intercede on their behalf. This signifies a shift in their relationship with God, where they can approach Him directly, empowered by their faith in Jesus. The phrase 'on that day' refers to the time after His resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit, when believers would have a more intimate relationship with God. This verse reassures the disciples that they have direct access to God, highlighting the importance of prayer and faith in Jesus' name. It encourages believers to confidently bring their requests to God, knowing that they are heard and valued.
How to apply John 16:26 to your life
This verse encourages believers to pray confidently in Jesus' name, knowing they can approach God directly. It reminds us that our relationship with God is personal and that we can bring our needs and concerns to Him without hesitation, trusting in His response.
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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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Keep studying John 16:26
Related Bible verses
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 16:26 mean?
John 16:26 means that Jesus is telling His disciples they will be able to pray directly to God the Father in His name. This indicates a new level of relationship where they can communicate with God without needing Jesus to intercede for them.
What is the significance of praying in Jesus' name in John 16:26?
Praying in Jesus' name signifies that believers can approach God with confidence, relying on their faith in Jesus. It emphasizes the personal relationship they can have with God and the authority given to them through Jesus.
What does 'on that day' refer to in John 16:26?
'On that day' refers to the time after Jesus' resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit, when believers would have direct access to God. It marks a significant change in how they relate to God.
How does John 16:26 relate to the concept of intercession?
In John 16:26, Jesus indicates that His disciples will not need Him to pray for them, highlighting that they can go directly to God. This shifts the focus from intercession by Jesus to personal prayer by the believers.
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