Jesus continues to explain who he is in John 16:25-33
25 “Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father. 26 In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. 27 No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”
29 Then Jesus’ disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. 30 Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.”
31 “Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. 32 “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.
33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Questions for discussion:
- Do you think it odd that at vs 31 the Apostles NOW believe Jesus is coming from God?
- What does Jesus mean by in their heart they will have peace but trouble in the world?
- Do you have trouble explaining who Jesus was to others? How can I help you do it better?
Ricks thoughts:
1. Do you think it odd that at vs 31 the Apostles NOW believe Jesus is coming from God?
The Apostles never completely understood Jesus’s ministry until he appeared to them after the Resurrection. For example, he spoke to the two travelers on the road after his resurrection and explained everything. “He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” (Luke 24:25-27).
2. What does Jesus mean by in their heart they will have peace but trouble in the world?
Jesus’s peace transcends all understanding. “27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
3.Do you have trouble explaining who Jesus was to others? How can I help you do it better?
It depends on their openmindedness and what baggage they bring to the discussion. The best way to tell is to tell my stories of interaction with God.