John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Study Note
Study Note
Jesus's final farewell discourse summary — 'In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world' — offers not exemption from suffering but a ground for courage within it: the speaker has already accomplished what the disciples fear. The aorist 'I have overcome' (nenikēka) is a completed action, set in the context of the imminent passion, implying that the cross is itself the victory over the world's power rather than a temporary defeat. Johannine 'world' (kosmos) in this context denotes the system of human existence organized against God and aligned with the ruler of this world (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11). 1 John 5:4 draws directly on this verse: 'this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith,' connecting the disciples' overcoming to participation in Christ's prior victory.
Other Translations
These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye may have peace. In the world ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
these things I have spoken to you, that in me ye may have peace, in the world ye shall have tribulation, but take courage--I have overcome the world.'
I have said all these things to you so that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble: but take heart! I have overcome the world.
Cross References
And the men of Israel and of Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the Philistines, until thou come to the …
Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, …
Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon …
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his …
And this man shall be the peace, when the Assyrian shall come into our land: and when he shall tread …
Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the …
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.
And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man’s life …
And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast …