John
16 – The World’s Opposition, Joy, Defeat
The
Lord warned them about the opposition that would come. Do not be surprised when
you are persecuted by religious people for this has been going on since Cain
killed Abel (Gen. 4; Luke 11:47-51). The Spirit helps us witness to the world
and glorify Christ before the world (Acts 4:8ff), so depend on Him.
When
Jesus was arrested, crucified, and buried, the world system rejoiced because
their Enemy was out of the way. But today he is alive, and we have every reason
to rejoice! The Lord does not replace our sorrow with joy; He transforms our
sorrow into joy. The same baby that gives the mother pain also gives her joy.
The world’s joy does not last, but the believer’s joy is forever (Ps. 16:11).
In
the next few hours, the disciples would watch their world fall apart; and yet
Jesus assured them that He was the winner. “I have overcome the world” is a
fact, not a promise, and it applies to us today. We are overcomers through Him
(1John 5:1-5).
If
you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.
Nelson’s
Quick Reference Commentary.
Dr.
David Jeremiah Study Bible. J. Vernon McGee Through the Bible
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