We’re in a section of John’s Gospel called the Farewell Discourse. Jesus is speaking privately with his disciples in the shadow of the cross. He has been preparing them for what is about to unfold—his betrayal, arrest, crucivision, and then, after his resurrection, his ascension to the Father. Though he is leaving them, he also promises that he will send the Holy Spirit to be with them.

I want us to focus our attention on verse 33, where Jesus brings this whole conversation to a conclusion:

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” 

Jesus says that trouble is inevitable, but peace is available. 

Trouble and peace… but Jesus says, “Take heart.” Why? Because of what he declares next: “I have overcome the world.”

That statement raises two questions:

1. How has Jesus overcome the world? 
2. And why should this cause us to take heart?