In this verse, Jesus speaks to His disciples, emphasizing the unique privilege they have in witnessing the fulfillment of God's promises. Many prophets and righteous people from the past longed to see the Messiah and the unfolding of God's kingdom, but they did not live to experience these events. The disciples, however, are living in a time when these prophecies are being realized through Jesus' life and ministry. This highlights the special role they play in God's plan and the blessings they receive by being close to Jesus.
The verse also serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's plan throughout history. The hopes and expectations of the prophets and righteous people were not in vain; they laid the groundwork for the coming of Christ. For contemporary believers, this verse encourages a deep appreciation for the opportunity to know Christ through the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit. It calls for a response of gratitude and a commitment to live out the teachings of Jesus, recognizing the privilege of being part of God's redemptive story.
