Definition: Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from John 16:7. It’s a really important and comforting passage about Jesus and his role in the church. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling believers that he needs to go away for a little while, but he's entrusting someone else – the Comforter – with looking after them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Nevertheless I tell you the truth…” - This is Jesus reassuring people that what he’s about to do isn't a big surprise or a difficult thing for them. He’s being honest with them. “…It is expedient for you that I go away…” – This means he needs to be in a place where he can better help and protect the believers. It’s a strategic move, not something he dislikes. “for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you.” - This is the core of the message. If Jesus doesn't go, the helper – the Comforter – won’t be able to reach and support those believers. “but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” - This means that when Jesus leaves, he’s intentionally sending his Helper (the Comforter) to them. It's a very generous act of God. What does this all mean? Jesus is vulnerable: He needs to step away to protect the believers. He trusts others: He's relying on his followers to care for one another. God’s plan: This is a key part of God’s plan – that he wants to be with us and work through us, even when he’s not physically present. Think of it like this analogy: Imagine you’re baking a cake. You need to take a break to mix ingredients or prepare something else. It's not the end of the process, but it's necessary for you to continue effectively. Jesus is doing the same thing – he needs to step back to allow his work to be done more effectively. In short, this verse emphasizes Jesus’s love and care for us, and that he's entrusting our spiritual well-being to others. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in a different way? Provide a related story or example?