What does John 16:27 mean?

Christ is reassuring the disciples that they will better understand His teachings when they have the influence of the Holy Spirit (John 16:12–13; 16:25). In the prior verse, Jesus alluded to the intimate, immediate connection which the Spirit allows between God the Father and each individual believer (Jeremiah 31:31–34).

Jesus often noted the intimate connection between Himself and God the Father (John 10:30). A major theme of His preaching was that belief in Him—in Christ—was absolutely necessary in order to be reconciled with God (John 3:16–18, 36; 14:6). Scripture makes it clear that belief in Jesus is the one and only way for a person to know God (John 6:28–29). Those who don't know Christ do not know God—and their rejection of His Son proves this (John 15:18–23).

Likewise, those who humbly follow God (John 14:15, 21) give evidence they are truly part of His people (John 14:23). Those who don't submit to God won't have the helpful influence of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14–16) and will be more likely to misunderstand (Matthew 11:25–26).