John 16:33

The structural marker "these things I have spoken to you" (cf. John 14:25; John 16:1; John 16:4; John 16:25; John 17:1) identifies the conclusion of this section of the discourse. The ultimate reason for Jesus’ revelations about His departure, as far as His immediate disciples were concerned, was that they might experience peace in their relationship with Him (cf. John 14:27). "In me" probably harks back to the vine and branches intimacy that Jesus revealed in chapter 15. Their relationship with the world would result in turmoil because of the opposition that would come on them from unbelievers. However the proof that the peace that Jesus would give them would overcome the turmoil that the world would create was Jesus’ victory over the world in the Cross (John 12:31; 1 Corinthians 15:57; 1 John 2:13-14; 1 John 4:4; 1 John 5:4-5). This was probably another statement that the disciples did not understand immediately.

Jesus closed this discourse with a word of encouragement. The Greek word thareso, translated "take courage" or "take heart," is one that only Jesus used in the New Testament (cf. Matthew 9:2; Matthew 9:22; Matthew 14:27; Mark 6:50; Mark 10:49; John 16:33; Acts 23:11). Jesus was the great encourager. The Holy Spirit continues His ministry in us today.

The tension that the victory of Christ and the opposition of the world pose for the Christian is not one that we can escape in this life. Notwithstanding it is possible for us to be more peaceful than distressed as we realize and believe that Jesus has already won the victory (John 16:11; cf. Romans 8:37).

The Upper Room Discourse ends here (John 13:31 to John 16:33). The rest of Jesus’ private ministry (chs. 13-17) consisted of prayer.