John 16:16-33 | What's happening (and who's involved)?

In this passage, the disciples are discussing amongst themselves concerning what Jesus says about His departing. Knowing they sought to ask Him about it, He gives way for them to discuss it with Him. He speaks into what will seem to be a moment of defeat for them but victory to the world. The world will be rejoicing and celebrating while the disciples will be mourning and weeping. But it will not be like that forever.

Like a woman who is in labor, they will suffer pain, but just as a woman who was in labor is elated with joy upon holding her now born child, so the disciples will yet rejoice. The pain will indeed be there, but it will only be for a moment. Their sorrow will be turned to rejoicing.

Notably, Jesus does not then ignore the sorrow they feel. He encourages them through it. They will indeed be reconciled with Him. From that they will rejoice and Jesus testifies that no one will take their joy from them. Jesus continuously promises fullness of joy to them. He recognizes their love and their faith. The disciples affirm their faith with thankfulness that Jesus spoke plainly to them.

In what has become a widely known verse, Jesus continues to build up their proclamation of faith by offering them peace. He recognizes how the world will oppose them, but that they should take heart. Jesus has overcome the world.

There are some amazing things in this section that I am very excited for us to get into. But first, let me ask, what observations are you making in this passage?