All of their lives the disciples had been taught about the anger of God. Daily sacrifices had been made in the temple. They were required to bring animals to be sacrificed not only once a year at the Day of Atonement but whenever they were aware that they had committed a sin they were required to bring an animal to be butchered. All those sacrifices continually reminded them of their unworthiness and God's anger against their sin (Hebrews 10:1-3).
Jesus knew how ingrained the truth of God's anger was in their minds. It was time they understood his love for them was not diminished by his anger toward sin. So his last private words to them we're filled with assurance of the Father's love for them.
"I do not say that I shall pray the Father for you, for the Father Himself loves you" (John 16:26; 14:21-23).
The Father loves you, personally (Jeremiah 1:5; Psalm 139:14-16; Revelation 3:5). In fact, he has a special love name he personally has chosen just for you (Revelation 2:17).
