A study of John 16:16-22 reveals a short time when Jesus is absent and sorrow that turns into an indestructible joy.
A study of John 16:16-22 reveals a short time when Jesus is absent.
So some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I am going to the Father’? (ESV, John 16:17)
It sounds like a game of hide and seek. First the disciples see Jesus, then they don’t, and next they do again. What does Jesus mean? It’s easier for us to understand from our vantage point today as we look back. But not for Jesus’ disciples who expected him to overthrow the Roman empire and establish his Kingdom on earth.
The Greek word for “a little while” is mikron, which means a short time or brief interval. And Jesus’ meaning is a bit fuzzy. The little while could simply be his death by crucifixion followed by three days in the grave and appearance after his resurrection.
The Greek word for “to see” is horaō and means physical sight. It confirms they would see him in physical reality and not as an apparition or in a vision. But then, he follows with “because I am going to the Father.” So, perhaps, the little while was not earth time but God’s time and refers to when the disciples meet Jesus in glory. Or maybe, it’s both?
A study of John 16:16-22 reveals a sorrow that turns into joy.
Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. (ESV, John 16:20)
The disciples would weep and cry at his death as the world rejoiced. The Greek word for “world” is kosmos, which represented unbelievers who rejected Jesus. The Jewish religious leaders especially wanted to kill him. Why? Because he threatened their power and illuminated their sin. And sin loves the darkness rather than light. But the disciples’ grief would immediately turn into joy when Jesus appeared after his resurrection.
He illustrates this with the example of a mother giving birth. She endures incredible pain and discomfort while giving birth. But immediately forgets it and is filled with joy when she holds her newborn baby. In a similar manner, the disciples would turn from sorrow to joy when they first see Jesus. Because the cross that initially looked like Jesus’ defeat is his victory in the redemption of mankind.
A study of John 16:16-22 reveals a joy that is indestructible.
So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. (ESV, John 16:22)
The joy that replaces the disciples weeping is indestructible. Why? Because the resurrection is more than a miraculous, one time event. It introduces the new creation. God’s saving work that makes sinners spiritually new in union with Jesus Christ. Accomplished by redemption through his death on the cross that offers us eternal life. And despite the hardships, persecutions, and challenges we face in this life, is absolutely secured.
This is the encouragement that James writes about.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (ESV, James 1:2-4)
The world may oppose Christ’s church, persecute believers, and bring temporary grief, but it cannot steal the joy grounded in a risen Savior. Christ’s resurrection finishes his saving work. And those who trust in him for salvation gain an eternal life and therefore, a joy no one can take away.
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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