28 First, I left the Father and arrived in the world; now I leave the world and travel to the Father." 29 His disciples said, "Finally! You're giving it to us straight, in plain talk - no more figures of speech. 30 Now we know that you know everything - it all comes together in you. You won't have to put up with our questions anymore. We're convinced you came from God." 31 Jesus answered them, "Do you finally believe? 32 In fact, you're about to make a run for it - saving your own skins and abandoning me. But I'm not abandoned. The Father is with me. 33 I've told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the world."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on John 16:28-33
Commentary on John 16:28-33
(Read John 16:28-33)
Here is a plain declaration of Christ's coming from the Father, and his return to him. The Redeemer, in his entrance, was God manifest in the flesh, and in his departure was received up into glory. By this saying the disciples improved in knowledge. Also in faith; "Now are we sure." Alas! they knew not their own weakness. The Divine nature did not desert the human nature, but supported it, and put comfort and value into Christ's sufferings. And while we have God's favourable presence, we are happy, and ought to be easy, though all the world forsake us. Peace in Christ is the only true peace, in him alone believers have it. Through him we have peace with God, and so in him we have peace in our own minds. We ought to be encouraged, because Christ has overcome the world before us. But while we think we stand, let us take heed lest we fall. We know not how we should act if brought into temptation; let us watch and pray without ceasing, that we may not be left to ourselves.