John 16:16-33, Lasting Joy
From 2Timothy2.org
Contents
Objectives
Materials
Introduction
Main Body
Setting The Stage
Main Proposition
Point 1, We must have eternal joy (V. 16-22)
Don't Be Confused (V. 16-18)
- When Jesus says "a little while and you will not see me," He refers to His coming ascension. The time after the resurrection when Jesus ascended to heaven. At this point Jesus has repeatedly told His disciples that things are about to change. The disciples did not fully understand what was going to change, but it should have been clear that changes were coming.
- When Jesus said and "again a little while and you will see me, because I go to the Father", He refers to the coming of the Holy Spirit. Jesus and the Spirit are one, and the Sprit would reveal all things.
- The disciples are naturally confused. What can Jesus possibly mean by telling them that because He goes to the Father, they will see Him? Wouldn't a departure to the Father mean they would not see Him? Have you ever thought to yourself, "If I could only see Jesus!" "If God would only come out and tell me what to do!" The disciples spent 3 years walking and talking with Jesus. Yet, it seems, that they only really knew Jesus once he departed. Do you want to see Jesus? Then don't be confused, The Holy Spirit, the revealer of Truth, gives us the ability to see Jesus!
Sorrow is expected (V. 19-20)
Sorrow is Temporary (V. 21-23)
Point 2, Our joy should be rooted in our position (V. 23-28)
Direct Access to the Father (V. 23-24)
A Better Understanding (V. 25)
The Authority and Merit of Christ (V. 26-28)
Point 2, Our joy comes because we have peace (V. 29-33)
Not Rooted in Ourselves (V. 29-30)
- Notice the irony. Have you ever jumped to a conclusion in someone's story or conversation only to find out you had no idea what you were talking about? (If you don't think you have ever done that then you might be oblivious.)
