Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 16:16

"A little while, and ye behold me no more; and again a little while, and ye shall see me." — John 16:16 (ASV)

Jesus’ remark in this verse was obscure to his disciples and is still enigmatic to us. His prediction of disappearance refers to his death, but to what does the second appearance refer? It cannot refer to his coming in the person of the Holy Spirit because he has emphasized the distinction between himself and the Spirit and between their respective ministries. The disciples are confused by his language, both by the concept of his going to the Father and by the time element involved. The best solution seems to be that he was referring to the Resurrection, which would take place “a little while” after he had left them.