Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 16:1

"These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be caused to stumble." — John 16:1 (ASV)

In ch. 16, Jesus reveals to his disciples what they must know to prepare them for their coming mission. He links it with the preceding section of his final discourse by sharpening the warning he has already given them concerning the hatred of the world. He applies this revelation particularly to their local conditions and predicts that they will suffer excommunication from the synagogue and even death (cf. the blind man in 9:22, 34). While Jesus was with the disciples, he could shelter and direct them. They must realize, however, that even his resurrection will not be sufficient to convince his enemies to remove the hatred that exists between them and Jesus’ followers.