Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary John 16:24

"Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be made full." — John 16:24 (ASV)

The verb “ask” (GK 2263) in the phrase “in that day you will no longer ask me anything” means “to ask a question” rather than “to request a favor.” Jesus seems to mean that at his reappearance after the Resurrection the truth of his claims and the status of his person will be self-evident. At that time the disciples will no longer question him as one of their number but will present their petitions to the Father in his name (cf. 14:13) and will be eligible for the Father’s response to their needs.