READ: Jn. 16:16–33: … I have overcome the world …
Only a little while and they will not see Jesus, when He is buried after the cross. Then they will see Him again after His resurrection until His ascension. His absence will be short; they will only sorrow for a few days.
The disciples, still overwhelmed with fear at His departure, cannot understand that they will see Him again when He goes to the Father. They do not yet connect His return with His resurrection, though He had often spoken of it (Matt. 16:21; 17:23; 20:19; Lk. 18:34). Even after the resurrection, they struggle to grasp it. They will be deeply sorrowful, but when they see Him again, their sorrow will become great joy.
Jesus gives the example of a woman in labor: pain first, then great joy when the child is born. So it will be with them. When He sees them again, no one will take their joy (v.22). Then what is unclear now will become completely clear (v.23).
The way to the Father will be open. They may call upon Him directly in prayer. In Jesus’ name they will receive everything they need for service in His Kingdom. This provides them with overflowing joy. The Father loves them because they believe in Jesus, the One sent by the Father, who now returns to Him.
The disciples finally understand (vv.29,30). Jesus rejoices in their faith, but warns that their faith will be tested when He is arrested, and they scatter (Matt. 26:31). Yet the Father will still be with Him. Jesus concludes with His victory and peace, always with them for their encouragement.
Why must we pray in the name of Christ?
Sing: Hymn 48:2,3 (1984) / 65:2,3 (2014)