Note 85 at Joh 16:18: It appears that the disciples were a little bit put out with Jesus' way of communicating with them, but they were afraid to say anything to Him. Jesus knew how they felt (Joh 16:19), and He admitted that He had been speaking to them in proverbs (Joh 16:25). He then promised that soon He would speak to them plainly of the Father (Joh 16:25).

Although we sometimes think that God's words are a little hard to understand (2Pe 3:16), we should never make the mistake of inquiring among ourselves, like these disciples did (Joh 16:19), as to what the Lord means. We should go directly to Him and ask His wisdom, knowing that He will gladly give it without criticizing us (Jas 1:5).