Easter
The Fifth Sunday of Easter (Cantate)
Cantate · May 3, 2026
Overview & Insights
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:13)
The second farewell discourse runs most closely parallel to the first precisely where it is most properly a “farewell” (i.e., where it addresses directly the question of Jesus’ impending departure; cf. 13:33). Here, inevitably, is also where the differences between the two discourses become most noticeable. Whereas the first discourse was largely structured around a series of questions by various disciples, here the question-and-answer method seems to be consciously abandoned. The earlier discourse began with Peter’s “Lord, where are you going?” in 13:36, but here Jesus makes the specific statement that none of you asks me “Where are you going?” (v. 5b). The reference is not simply to questions but to the specific question that touched off the whole discourse comprising 13:36–14:31. It is as if Jesus shows awareness of 13:36 but makes a conscious effort to do things differently.
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Commentary
John 16 Commentary: The Departing Jesus' Final Teaching Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik covers Jesus going away, the promise of the Helper, and the Spirit who convicts and guides into all truth.
John 16:5 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators on Now I go to him who sent me and none of you asks where I am going.
John 16 Commentary Precept Austin
Verse-by-verse study notes with word studies on the Paraclete and his work of conviction.
John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed sermon commentary on the exact span of this reading and the Spirit of truth who declares what is to come.
Background & Word Study
John - Enter the Bible Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary book portal giving outline, authorship, and themes for the farewell discourse.
Gospel of John Summary: Watch an Overview Video BibleProject
Animated overview that maps where the upper room discourse sits in John's structure.
What is the Holy Spirit in the Bible? BibleProject
Theme video on the Spirit, the Advocate whose sending and work are the heart of this passage.
John 16:5 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek-English interlinear parsing parakletos (Helper) and elencho (convict) in the Spirit's mission.
The Trinity and John 16 Psephizo · Ian Paul
Ian Paul's Anglican study of the Spirit taking what is Christ's and declaring it, from verses 12 to 15.
The Church Fathers
Sermons & Reflections
Questions preachers ask
What is the work of the Holy Spirit?
Jesus promises that it is to their advantage that he go, for he will send the Helper, who will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment, and guide the disciples into all truth, glorifying Christ.
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