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.
Is your Church small group tethered to Sermon-based study guides?
Break free with this one! Teaching content is built into the daily studies and a weekly study guide equips small group leaders for engaging group discussions. Dive deep into scripture but with practical application.
A study of John 16:23-27 reveals disciples access the father through prayer in Jesus’ name, are filled with joy, and the father loves them because they love Jesus and believe he came from God.
A Study of John 16:23-27 reveals disciples access the father through prayer in Jesus’ name.
In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. (ESV, John 16:23)
Up to this point Jesus has been with the disciples in person. And for any need, guidance, or spiritual question on their minds they addressed him directly. “In that day” likely means after his resurrection, ascension to the father, and arrival of the Holy Spirit. And Jesus won’t be around to take their questions.
Furthermore, there are different Greek words used in “ask nothing of me” and “ask of the Father in my name.” The first is erōtaō, which usually involves a question seeking information, but can mean asking for something. And the second is aiteō, which means a request or petition for something. Without Jesus to lean on for support, the disciples would naturally present many petitions to the father in Jesus’ name. Therefore, prayer would play an important role going forward and become a regular spiritual practice in their lives. And the same is true for us as disciples today.
To pray “in Jesus’ name” is not a special prayer formula. A phrase we tack on to a prayer like a spiritual notary stamp that obligates God to grant every request like a divine genie. We are to pray in submission to God’s will on the basis of Christ’s person, authority, and righteousness. According to the truth of his word. In addition, we must understand there are three possible answers: “Yes,” “no,” and “wait.”
A Study of John 16:23-27 reveals praying to the father in Jesus’ name will fill them with joy.
Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. (ESV, John 16:24-25)
Presently, the disciples didn’t have to ask for anything in Jesus’ name because he was alive and with them. But that would change when he was gone. And they would confront fear, confusion, and uncertainty. What then? Prayer would be their spiritual lifeline and primary means of communication. And the Helper–the Holy Spirit–would be alongside them as counselor in Jesus’ place.
The same is true for disciples today. We must follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and pray to the father in Jesus’ name. Jesus told the disciples that as a result, their “joy would be full.” And is true today as well. The Greek word for “joy” is chara, which means joy, gladness, delight, or deep rejoicing. True joy is Christ-centered and not happiness based on circumstances. It is a deeper, more settled sense of peace and God-given gladness in fellowship with the Father through the Son. And it includes the security of eternal life.
A Study of John 16:23-27 reveals the father also loves them because they love Jesus and believe he came from God.
In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. (ESV, John 16:26-27)
It seems implied although Jesus does not say it here specifically. When he is with the father he will speak on behalf of his disciples. However, his role as an advocate is clearly taught in Romans 8:34 and Hebrews 7:25 along with other passages. But suddenly he says, “I do not say that I will ask the Father on your behalf.” Is this a contradiction? What does Jesus mean by it? The words, “For the Father himself loves you,” helps clarify. Jesus is reassuring his disciples the father is not distant or relunctant to hear their prayers. So they don’t have to rely on Jesus repeating their prayers to the Father on their behalf.
In other words, Jesus advocates for us as disciples to the father. But it doesn’t include conveying our prayers to the him. Why? Because he doesn’t have to. The Father loves us because we love Jesus. And as a loving father he wants to hear our prayers. So our prayers in Jesus’ name go directly to Him.
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.
Is your Church small group tethered to Sermon-based study guides?
Break free with this one! Teaching content is built into the daily studies and a weekly study guide equips small group leaders for engaging group discussions. Dive deep into scripture but with practical application.
A study of John 15:22-27 reveals we all must choose to accept or reject Jesus, those who hate Jesus hate the Father, and the Holy Spirit and Jesus’ disciples bear witness about him.
A study of John 15:22-27 reveals we all must choose to accept or reject Jesus.
If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. (ESV, John 15:22)
On its own, this verse appears to say the people who didn’t hear Jesus preach weren’t guilty of sin. And demonstrates why the context around every verse must be considered when discerning meaning. In this case, Jesus instructs his twelve disciples following their last Passover meal together. And he summarizes what is about to happen and in the unfolding days ahead.
In V.18-21, he reminds them the world will hate them, but it hated him first. Who is he talking about? The world represents everyone who rejects Jesus. And he’s talking about the Jews and Jewish religious leaders who saw his divine works and heard him teach, but still rejected him as the Messiah. He didn’t mean if they hadn’t heard him they would be absolved of sin. The Old Testament law clearly taught the moral rules Jews were to follow as God’s people and provided a sacrificial system for atonement.
It also taught about moral corruption within the human heart.
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? (ESV, Jeremiah 17:9)
Your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear. (ESV, Isaiah 59:2)
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. (ESV, Isaiah 53:6)
Furthermore, the Apostle Paul reminds us that unbelievers have the same natural evidence of God as believers and are morally accountable for it.
For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse.” (ESV, Romans 1:19-20)
The people who saw Jesus’ divine works and heard him speak words from the father received the fullest revelation. God in human flesh. To have that opportunity and still reject him increased their level of accountability and judgment for eternity. It would be better for them if they had never seen or heard him. Because now they had no excuse for rejecting him.
A study of John 15:22-27 reveals that to hate Jesus is to hate the Father.
Whoever hates me hates my Father also.If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. (ESV, John 15:23-24)
The Jewish religious leaders thought their religious acts and committment to the law showed their love and devotion to God. And would vigorously object to hearing Jesus say they hated God. But it was external, religious observance that hid their self-righteous hypocrasy Jesus often pointed out. Both in the Old and New Testaments, what God desired, and still does is a genuine comittment of the heart. If their hearts truly sought God the father, they should have recognized his revelation in the Son. We see the heart commitment God desires from us reflected in the life of David.
After removing Saul, He raised up David as their king and testified about him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse a man after My own heart; he will carry out My will in its entirety. (ESV, Acts 13:22)
But V.25 presents even further condemnation.
“They hated me without a cause.” This statement by Jesus is likely drawn from Psalm 69:4. It’s written by David who was on the run from enemies seeking to kill him. David complains of unfair treatment without reason. And Jesus uses his words to voice the same complaint.
However, some religious leaders did believe in Jesus. We see this in John 3:1-3 as the Pharisee, Nicodemus met privately with Jesus and acknowledged he was a teacher from God. Along with Joseph of Arimathea who was a Jewish council member that buried the body of Jesus in his own grave. And there were others too.
Nevertheless, many even of the authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue. (ESV, John 12:42)
Jesus Christ was the Son of God in human flesh. To hate and reject him was the same as hating and rejecting God the father. And it results in eternal separation from him.
A study of John 15:22-27 the Holy Spirit and Jesus’ disciples will bear witness about him.
But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning. (ESV, John 15:26-27)
The “Helper” is the Holy Spirit, third person of the trinity who will continue Jesus’ ministry after he returns to the father. The Greek word Paraklētos means one called alongside to help, advocate for, comfort and strengthen. Jesus also calls him the Spirit of Truth who will inspire teaching that is Christ-centered and fully supports God’s word. He would help the disciples and the church discern God’s truth from errant human philosophies and false teachings. The same as he does today.
The fact Jesus sends the Spirit who proceeds from the father confirms his full deity and personal distinction from the Father and Son. Therefore, the Spirit is eternally God who will “bear witness” about Jesus. The Greek word is martyresei that comes from the same word-family as “martyr” and means to bear witness or give testimony. The disciples, who were with Jesus from the beginning of his ministry, were also eyewitnesses to it. Therefore, they would join in the Spirit’s mission to testify to all they had seen, heard, and knew to be true regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ. And disciples today also bear witness by testifying to the truth of God’s Word.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Is your Church small group tethered to Sermon-based study guides?
Break free with this one! Teaching content is built into the daily studies and a weekly study guide equips small group leaders for engaging group discussions. Dive deep into scripture but with practical application.
Spice up speeches with humor. Why? Because a funny speech grabs audience attention and communicates your message more effectively through laughter. Here are tips for writing one.
Spice up speeches with humor. It increases audience attention and improves conveying your message.
Need to write and deliver a speech? A presentation? Motivational talk? Spice it up with humor. Why? Because humor is entertaining and increases audience engagement. And this increases the chance your message is heard. Whether you’re seeking to inform, motivate or persuade. That’s because laughter breaks down barriers and makes people more receptive to your thoughts.
Perhaps you don’t consider yourself a funny person. And maybe your audience knows that too. Fantastic! Using humor when people usually think of you as serious surprises them. And the element of surprise is a comedy technique in the humor market. So your speech is even funnier to your audience.
Spice up speeches with humor. Tailor it to your audience—even if they’re tailors
This should be sew obvious I needle not even bring it up. Never talk or write down to an audience. At the same time, write humor and language that is relevant. Are they carpenters? Nail them with great lines. Doctors? Give them your best shot. Attorneys? Be careful, they’re libel to litigate you.
Write humor that is appropriate to your audience and doesn’t offend their sensibilities. But keep in mind that education and vocation does affect a person’s vocabulary. So write your humor accordingly. As you research your topic, collect a list of industry terminology and phrases. Then work them in to your outline so your audience knows you speak their language.
Spice up speeches with humor. Make sure it supports your message.
The mechanics of speechwriting are the same with or without humor. Every speech has a beginning, middle, and end. And the beginning is important because it’s often where you either gain or lose the attention of your audience. So write an introduction with a humorous story, funny anecdote, or amusing story. And it doesn’t have to be original humor. The library is full of humor books for speeches with jokes, quips, and stories for all kinds of themes and occasions.
After the introduction, you’ll write the body of the speech. It usually includes 3-5 main points. Even if your point is serious, elaborate on it with a joke, funny illustration, or anecdotal story. Create smooth transitions from one point to the next. This too, offers an opportunity for humor. And don’t forget visual props. There are cartoons, funny pictures, and even comedy videos that will increase the laughter while making your point.
Spice up speeches with humor. End with a funny wrap up.
Write a speech ending that includes a brief summary of your main points—not a summary made in your briefs. Unless you’re addressing a group at Fruit of the Loom.
The wrap-up is where you wow your audience with your final, humorous zinger. Something memorable. A bit of wisdom with a humorous twist that drives your message home. It could end up as the one pithy statement that summarizes the whole speech and becomes a lasting memory that drives your message forward.
You’ll discover that a humorous speech has a funny way of making an impact through the levity of laughter.
About Chip Tudor:
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.
Looking for a Bible Study for yourself or small group?
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.
Is your Church small group tethered to Sermon-based study guides?
Break free with this one! Teaching content is built into the daily studies and a weekly study guide equips small group leaders for engaging group discussions. Dive deep into scripture but with practical application.
Join my list and I'll notify you of new blog posts and send you a monthly newsletter. It features inspirational thoughts, writing tips, and a peek into writing projects. I'll also include my article: Exaggerate to Make Your Presentations Funny. It shows you how to punch up presentations with humor and make them more compelling.
