Jesus concluded his private discourse to the twelve and then addressed the larger group, commenting compassionately, “Ye are weak.” As a result, “ye cannot understand all my words.” It probably is not from lack of desire or effort but more likely from sheer fatigue. They have been listening to Jesus for a long time. His arrival was dramatic, and intense spiritual experiences can be physically enervating.
Jesus asks them to return home, to rest and recuperate from the powerful emotions and spiritual feelings they have experienced during the day. He also requests that they “ponder upon the things which I have said, and ask of the Father, in my name, that ye may understand.” These instructions are a model for understanding the information God gives us. We may not understand everything right away, but prayerful pondering allows the Spirit to guide our study, leading toward understanding heavenly things.