New Testament
John 16:22
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So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
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And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.
What John 16:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus acknowledges the sorrow his disciples are feeling as he prepares to leave them. He reassures them that this sadness is temporary and that they will see him again. When they do, their hearts will be filled with joy that cannot be taken away by anyone. This promise highlights the deep, abiding joy that comes from a relationship with Christ, which transcends circumstances. The joy Jesus speaks of is not dependent on external factors but is rooted in the hope of his resurrection and the future reunion with him. This message is meant to comfort the disciples, reminding them that their current pain will be replaced by lasting joy. It emphasizes the transformative power of faith and the assurance that, despite present difficulties, there is a future filled with hope and joy in Christ.
How to apply John 16:22 to your life
In times of sorrow, remember that joy is promised through faith in Christ. Focus on the hope of future reunions and the joy that comes from a relationship with Him. This perspective can help you endure difficult moments, knowing they are temporary.
Curated for this public verse page. John Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Comforts His Disciples (John 14:1–16:33)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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At a Glance — the Book of John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- All believers
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does John 16:22 mean?
John 16:22 means that while Jesus' disciples are experiencing sorrow due to his impending departure, he promises that they will see him again, leading to a joy that cannot be taken away. This verse emphasizes the temporary nature of their sadness and the lasting joy that comes from their relationship with him.
What is the meaning of joy in John 16:22?
In John 16:22, joy refers to a deep, abiding happiness that comes from the assurance of being reunited with Jesus. This joy is not influenced by external circumstances and is a promise of hope for believers.
How can I apply John 16:22 to my life?
You can apply John 16:22 by remembering that your current sorrows are temporary and that joy is promised through your faith in Christ. Focus on the hope of future reunions and the joy that comes from your relationship with Him.
What does the phrase 'no one will take your joy from you' mean?
The phrase 'no one will take your joy from you' means that the joy believers experience through their relationship with Christ is secure and cannot be diminished by external circumstances or people.
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