A.T. Robertson Commentary John 16:26

"In that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you;" — John 16:26 (ASV)

I say not (ου λεγω). "I speak not." Christ did pray for the disciples before his death (John 14:16; 17:9,15,24) and he prays also for sinners (Luke 23:34; 1 John 2:1). Here it is the special love of God for disciples of Jesus (John 14:21,23; 17:23; 1 John 4:19). Note αιτεω and ερωταω used in practically the same sense as in verse 23.