Definition: But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from John 16:4. It’s a really important and often misunderstood part of Jesus’ teachings. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it’s saying: “I’ve already told you about these important truths – things like the Holy Spirit, the Church, and the future – but I’m sharing them with you now because I’m still with you.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: "But these things have I told you..." : Jesus is revealing something significant. He's not just casually dropping information; he’s making a promise and establishing a connection. "...that when the time shall come..." : This refers to a future event – likely the Second Coming of Christ, but it’s broader than just that. It means a time when things will change dramatically. "ye may remember..." : This is the core message. He's reminding us of something crucial. "...that I told you of them." : This is the specific truths he’s talking about – things like: The Holy Spirit: He’ll be present in the church and guide believers. The Church: A community of believers, growing and being built up by God. The Future: He's showing us a future where things will be different, more wonderful, and filled with hope. "...and these things I said not unto you at the beginning..." : This is really important! Jesus isn’t just repeating information – he’s adding to it. He’s revealing these truths to us now , after He's been with him. "...because I was with you." : This is a key phrase. It means Jesus is actively involved in the process of revealing this truth. He’s not just talking about it; he’s participating in it, and that participation is now happening with us. In short, this verse is about trust. It's a reassurance that God has already prepared for the future and that He is still guiding and participating with us. Why is this important? It emphasizes that Jesus’ ministry isn't just about teaching us information; it’s about empowering us to believe and participate in His plan for the world. Do you want me to: Explain any of these points further with a specific example? Relate this verse to a particular biblical story or concept?