John 16:29 Commentary and Bible Study

This is probably a reference to the fact that he explained all this to them without their actually asking him, demonstrating that he knew their minds. In fact, in chapter 16 we find they are still saying we do not understand what you mean when you say this, when you say that. And suddenly it dawns, suddenly by the blessing of God, they grasp all the things that are laid out before them here. and they say to him, now we understand; now they say, you are speaking plainly. This seems to resolve so much for them, this single sentence. Well the Lord Jesus Christ could not have spoken more plainly all along, but now they grasp it, and it seems to them that these words have never been uttered before. So there is to some extent, a delayed effect in this teaching, but it is his last words to his disciples - chapters 14, 15, 16, and the great high priestly prayer for them in chapter 17.