In a lengthy discussion with His disciples before His death, Jesus explained to them that He was going away. “A little while, and you will no longer see Me” (John 16:16). He told them, “I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father” (John 16:28).
Jesus’ departure would mean difficulties for His disciples. He was going to be crucified. And while He would be raised from the dead and ascend to heaven, His followers were going to face persecution. He told them, “Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me” (John 16:32).
Jesus knew the Father was going to be with Him through it all. Yet His disciples needed some reassurance. So He said, “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Interestingly, Jesus said He had already “overcome the world” even though He had not yet gone to the cross. Yet His victory over His enemies, Satan, and death was so certain that He could speak of it as if it has already happened. This was to provide encouragement to them and to us in whatever difficulties may come.
So take courage. We will face tribulation while we live here, yet Jesus has already defeated every enemy – including death. Therefore, let us endure all things with hope and faith in Him.