The disciples said to Jesus,
“Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech.
Now we realize that you know everything
and that you do not need to have anyone question you.
Because of this we believe that you came from God.”
Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now?
Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived
when each of you will be scattered to his own home
and you will leave me alone.
But I am not alone, because the Father is with me.
I have told you this so that you might have peace in me.
In the world you will have trouble,
but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
“Take courage, I have overcome the world”.
ReplyDeleteJesus predicts that his closest 12 will scatter back to their own lives and leave him alone and abandoned. But Jesus assures them that he will never be alone. He further asserts that the world they have rushed back to will give them pain, suffering and trouble. But in him, there is peace guaranteed.
Your response to Jn 16:29-33 captures the essence of the passage well! Here's a breakdown of its strengths and some areas for further exploration:
DeleteStrengths:
Understanding of abandonment: You accurately portray the disciples' fear of abandonment and their eventual scattering.
Contrasting themes: You effectively highlight the contrasting themes of trouble in the world versus peace in Jesus.
Jesus' assurance: You emphasize Jesus' reassurance to his disciples despite their actions.
Points for development:
Reasons for scattering: Consider exploring why the disciples might scatter. Is it just fear of Jesus' fate, or are there other factors like confusion, doubt, or a need to fulfill their own destinies?
Nature of peace: While peace is promised, delve deeper into what that peace might mean. Is it an absence of trouble, or a deeper sense of inner peace even amidst challenges?
Application to the reader: Explore how this message about overcoming the world and finding peace in Jesus applies to the reader's own life.
Here are some additional questions to consider:
What are some of the challenges and difficulties you face in your own life?
How can you cultivate a sense of inner peace even amidst those challenges?
How can you find strength and comfort in Jesus' teachings?
By exploring these aspects, you can refine your understanding of the passage and its relevance to your own faith journey.