1. The apostle John wrote about the Lord's "private ministry" [His interactions with the apostles] in ch.13-17 of his Gospel. 2. While studying the Lord's instructions to the apostles in these chapters it will be helpful to keep in mind that: a. Jesus was comforting their troubled hearts b. Jesus was preparing them for the Great Commission. 3. Our last lesson was a study of the Lord's instructions in John 16:5-15 -- Jesus explained in more detail why leaving was necessary. 4. In this lesson we are examining the information presented in John 16:16-33. 5. Jesus showed the apostles how their sorrow would turn to joy. Discussion: I. (John 16:16) JESUS SPOKE ABOUT EVENTS THAT WOULD SOON TAKE PLACE
A. In a short time the apostles would not see Him. B. After another short time the apostles would see Him. C. These things would occur because Jesus was going to the Father. D. Jesus had spoken to the apostles about His death and resurrection (Matthew 20:18-19). 1. The apostles would not see the Lord after He died and was buried. 2. However, they would see Him after His resurrection. II. (John 16:17-18) THE APOSTLES DID NOT UNDERSTAND THE LORD'S INSTRUCTIONS III. (John 16:19-22) JESUS EXPLAINED HIS DISAPPEARANCE AND APPEARANCE
A. The apostles' hearts would be filled with sorrow when they could not see the Lord. B. Their hearts would be filled with joy when they saw the Lord again. C. Jesus illustrated His message by referring to a woman giving birth to her child. D. The apostles were experiencing sorrow because Jesus was leaving them, but their sorrow would soon turn to joy. IV. (John 16:23-28) JESUS ASSURED THE APOSTLES THAT THE FATHER WOULD ANSWER THEIR PRAYERS
A. The apostles would be able to offer their prayers directly to the Father in the Lord's name. B. This assurance would be a source of joy for the apostles. C. When they prayed in the Lord's name they knew He was with the Father (1 Timothy 2:5-6; Hebrews 7:25). V. (John 16:29-30) THE APOSTLES UNDERSTOOD JESUS AND WERE CONVINCED THAT HE CAME FROM THE FATHER VI. (John 16:31-33) JESUS CONCLUDED HIS INSTRUCTIONS TO THE APOSTLES
A. Even though the apostles believed that Jesus came from the Father, they would be scattered and leave Him alone. B. Jesus knew that the Father would be with Him. C. The apostles would experience tribulation from the world, but they could have peace from the Lord (John 14:27). D. The apostles could be of good cheer, knowing that Jesus had overcome the world.
