Meeting guide · command 84

Take Heart

Take courage in Jesus' victory, receiving peace in Him even while tribulation remains in the world.

Read

Read the complete passage aloud.

Primary passage

John 16:33

33 I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.”

World English Bible

At the close of His farewell teaching, Jesus tells disciples plainly that hardship will come and locates peace in Himself and courage in His triumph.

Discuss

Listen carefully to what Jesus says.

  1. What does Jesus command?
  2. What does this passage reveal about Him?
  3. Where do we resist this command?
  4. What is difficult or unclear?
  5. How can Jesus' victory create real peace before the trouble itself is removed?

Practice

Choose one specific act of obedience.

Name one present tribulation without minimizing it, repeat Jesus' promise, and take one courageous action consistent with His victory.

Return

Come back and discuss what happened.

What trouble did you name, and what courageous action became possible in Jesus' peace?

Close together

Pray. Then prepare to teach.

Pray

Overcoming Jesus, give us your peace and courage. Keep us truthful about trouble and steadfast in your victory.

Teach

Hold tribulation and peace together; 'take heart' is not pressure to appear cheerful or deny grief.