New Testament

John 16:21

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a woman in labor to illustrate the pain and sorrow that precedes a significant event.

Author
John the apostle
Written
Around AD 85-95
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
All believers
CBTClear Bible Translation

A woman in labor has pain because her hour has come. But when she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, because of her joy that a human being has been born into the world.

KJVKing James Version

A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a woman in labor to illustrate the pain and sorrow that precedes a significant event. Just as a woman experiences intense pain during childbirth, the disciples will face sorrow as Jesus prepares to leave them. However, once the child is born, the joy of new life overshadows the previous anguish. This analogy highlights the transformative nature of suffering; the pain is temporary and gives way to joy. Jesus is preparing His followers for the trials they will face after His departure, but He assures them that their grief will eventually turn into joy. This joy is not just for them but for the world, as the birth of a child signifies hope and new beginnings. The verse emphasizes the idea that through hardship, there can be profound joy and fulfillment, reminding believers that their struggles are part of a larger purpose that leads to ultimate joy. Explore related transformation.

How to apply John 16:21 to your life

When facing difficult times, remember that pain can lead to joy. Just as childbirth brings new life, our struggles can lead to growth and new opportunities. Trust that your current challenges may result in something beautiful and fulfilling in the future.

Curated for this public verse page. John Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does John 16:21 mean?

John 16:21 uses the metaphor of a woman in labor to illustrate the pain and sorrow that precedes a significant event. It highlights that while the disciples will experience grief when Jesus leaves, this sorrow will eventually transform into joy, similar to how a mother forgets her pain after giving birth.

What is the significance of childbirth in John 16:21?

Childbirth in John 16:21 symbolizes the process of suffering leading to joy. Just as a woman endures pain during labor but rejoices at the birth of her child, the verse conveys that the disciples' current struggles will lead to a greater joy after Jesus' resurrection.

What does the phrase 'her hour has come' mean in John 16:21?

The phrase 'her hour has come' refers to the moment of intense labor that a woman experiences when it is time to give birth. In the context of John 16:21, it signifies the impending trials and sorrow the disciples will face as Jesus prepares to leave them.

How does John 16:21 relate to suffering and joy?

John 16:21 illustrates the relationship between suffering and joy by showing that pain can precede significant joy. The verse reassures believers that their current hardships are temporary and can lead to profound joy and fulfillment in the future.

The Book of John
Book Summary

The Book of John

John 1: The Word Made Flesh and the First Disciples

In the beginning is the Word, and the Word is with God, and the Word is God. All things are made by him, and in him is life, and the life is the light of men. The light shines in darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it. John the Baptist is sent from God to bear witness of the Light. He says he is not the Christ but comes to testify of him. The Word is made flesh and dwells among them, full of grace and truth. John bears witness and says that the one coming after him is preferred before him because he is before him.

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