A study of John 16:28-33 reveals Jesus talking plainly to his disciples, when they abandoned Jesus he was not alone, and Jesus has overcome the world.

A study of John 16:28-33 reveals Jesus talking plainly to his disciples.

 His disciples said, “Ah, now you are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech! Now we know that you know all things and do not need anyone to question you; this is why we believe that you came from God.” (ESV, John 16:29-30)

Throughout his three year ministry Jesus was careful on how he spoke to individuals and public audiences. He often enshrouded spiritual truth within familiar experiences and stories from common life called parables. And dodged answering direct questions from religious leaders who sought to trap him in wrong doing. But during this last meal with his disciples he speaks frankly about what will happen in the days ahead. Likely with more seriousness, urgency, and concern for the disciples.

And Jesus’ statement in verse 28 gets right to the point:  “I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.”

The disciples noticed the directness and remarked about his plain speech rather than figurative language. Because just before this in V.16, Jesus told his disciples in a little while they wouldn’t see him and in another little while they would. It baffled the disciples who discussed it among themselves in V.17. And seeing their confusion, Jesus clarifies the meaning in V.20-24. So when the disciples say in V.30, “Now we know that you know all things,” they are confessing their belief in his divine knowledge. And that he came from God and was sent by the father.

However, this is not the only time Jesus demonstrated supernatural knowledge. He demonstrated it in his encounter with Nathanael (John 1:47–49), the Samaritan woman (John 4:16–19, 29), and in knowing what was in humanity (John 2:24–25).

A study of John 16:28-33 reveals that when the disciples abandoned Jesus he was not alone.

Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. (ESV, John 16:32)

Jesus’ response to the disciples’ confession was not enthusiastic. And perhaps, carried a slight rebuke. Because their loyalty was about to be tested. And Jesus demonstrated his divine knowledge by informing them how they would respond after his crucifixion. Rather than bold, unshakeable faith, they would all run and hide.

Again, another blunt statement. You will scatter to your homes and leave me alone. But not really alone. The father would still be with him. And stay with him up to that critical moment on the cross when he carried the entire weight of the world’s sin. He would cry out in anguish, “My God, my God. Why have you forsaken me?”

The same challenge stands before his disciples today. Will we stand firm in our faith as followers of Jesus Christ or hide as his enemies seek to intimidate and silence us in order to abolish the Gospel?

A study of John 16:28-33 reveals that Jesus has overcome the world.

 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (ESV, John 16:33)

Jesus concludes his Upper Room discourse with good news and bad news. The good new is that in him they will have peace and the bad news is that in the world they will have tribulation. The Greek word translated “peace” is eirēnē, which means peace, quietness, and rest. It is the Greek word used to convey the Old Testament word shalom. It communicates a state of blessing, wholeness, and covenant well-being under God.

Modern culture typically views peace as a lack of conflict or inner calm. But in scripture it means peace with God. This peace is “in Christ,” which involves a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Through this relationship we are reconcilled to God because our sin debt is paid and we’re forgiven.

What is the world?

The Greek word for “world” is kosmos and broadly means the created world or the human race. But John uses it in a spiritual sense to represent fallen humanity living in rebellion against God and hostile to Christ. And his followers should also expect hostile treatment. We are not guaranteed protection from that hostile treatment, but we live with the assurance of an eternal life to come. And that assurance provides a sense of ultimate wellbeing that encourages us to persevere.

Jesus ends with a victorious declaration. Even though we must expect tribulation we should take heart because Jesus has overcome the world. It could also be phrased, “I have overcome,” “I have conquered,” or “I have been victorious over.” And “the world” he means is the fallen world in rebellion against God. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus has defeated the power of sin and its consequence of eternal separation from God.

It doesn’t mean a trouble free life. But it does mean Christ has won. And so do we through his grace and forgiveness.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is a Christian author and blogger who publishes Christian non-fiction and fiction books, humorous drama, and scripturally centered, thought-provoking blog posts from a Christian worldview. To learn more visit: www.chiptudor.com.

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