John 16:25-33


"I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father. 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. I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.” 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.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 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. 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.” (John 16:25-33 ESV)


The Father's Love and Our Access to Him

In this passage, Jesus prepares His disciples for the coming trials by reassuring them of their direct access to the Father. He promises that soon He will no longer need to speak in parables or metaphors; they will understand plainly the truth about God. More significantly, Jesus assures them that they will pray directly to the Father in His name, and the Father will listen because of His love for them. The disciples’ relationship with the Father is rooted in their love for Jesus and their faith in His divine mission: that He came from God.

This access to the Father is a profound privilege for every believer. Because of Jesus’ mediation, we are able to come before God with confidence, knowing that He hears us (Hebrews 4:16). The love of the Father is not distant or cold; it is personal, welcoming, and attentive to those who love Jesus. Jesus’ role as our mediator emphasizes that our relationship with God is not based on ritual or formality, but on genuine love and faith in Christ.

Scriptures to Study:

Hebrews 4:14-16, Romans 5:1-2, John 14:6-7, 1 John 3:1


The Coming Challenges and Jesus' Victory

After the disciples express their understanding and belief, Jesus warns them of the coming hardships. Even though they claim strong faith, He knows they will soon scatter and abandon Him. This is a sobering reminder that even the most devoted followers may falter under pressure. However, Jesus reassures them that despite their failure, He will not be alone—His Father will be with Him. This underscores the faithfulness of God in the face of human weakness. Even when we stumble, God does not forsake us.

Jesus then delivers a promise that is both challenging and comforting: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” This statement acknowledges the reality of trials and suffering in the Christian life. Following Jesus does not exempt us from hardships, but it does guarantee victory. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has already secured the ultimate triumph over sin, death, and all the powers of darkness. This gives us a firm foundation for hope, even in the midst of trials.

Scriptures to Study:

Romans 8:35-39, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, 1 Peter 4:12-13, 1 John 5:4-5


Peace in Christ Amidst Tribulation

One of the most striking elements of this passage is the peace that Jesus promises. He says, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace.” The peace He offers is not circumstantial; it does not depend on the absence of trouble but on the presence of Christ. This peace is grounded in His victory over the world. It is a deep, abiding peace that comes from knowing that Jesus has already secured the final victory.

As disciples, we are called to rest in this peace even when life is difficult. The world may bring tribulation, but in Christ, we find a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). This peace is a gift from the Holy Spirit, who strengthens and comforts us through trials. The Holy Spirit reminds us of Jesus' victory and empowers us to live with confidence and hope, no matter what challenges we face.

Scriptures to Study:

John 14:27, Philippians 4:6-7, Isaiah 26:3, Colossians 3:15


Summary of Key Points


Life Application Questions