John 16:8

8 And when he cometh [And when he shall come], he shall reprove the world of sin, and of rightwiseness, and of doom.

John 16:8 Meaning and Commentary

John 16:8

And when he is come
The coming of the Spirit here, chiefly designs his descent upon the apostles, at the day of "Pentecost": as the things ascribed to him, and which were then done by him, clearly show; though it may also include his coming along with, and by the ministration of the Gospel, into the hearts of his people at conversion, in all after ages of time:

he will reprove the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment:
by "the world" is principally meant, the Jews; the world among whom Christ personally was, who knew him not, disbelieved him, rejected him as the Messiah, hated and persecuted him, even unto death; though not to the exclusion of the Gentiles, the whole world that lies in wickedness; since both joined, and were concerned in these things, and reproved of them; which "reproving", as it may respect different persons, may intend both such reproofs and convictions, as are not attended with conversion, and issue in salvation; and such as are powerful, spiritual, and to saving purposes: the several things the Spirit of God is said to reprove of, being repeated in the following verses, with reasons or specifications annexed to them, will be there considered.

John 16:8 In-Context

6 but for I have spoken to you these things, heaviness hath full-filled your heart [sorrow, or heaviness, hath full-filled your heart].

7 But I say to you truth, it speedeth to you, that I go; for if I go not forth [soothly if I shall not go away], the comforter shall not come to you; but if I go forth [forsooth if I shall go away], I shall send him to you.

8 And when he cometh [And when he shall come], he shall reprove the world of sin, and of rightwiseness, and of doom.

9 Of sin, for they have not believed in me;

10 and of rightwiseness, for I go to the Father, and now ye shall not see me;