New Testament
John 16:28
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I came from the Father and have come into the world. Now I am leaving the world and going to the Father."
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I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.
What John 16:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is expressing His divine origin and mission. He emphasizes that He came from God the Father into the world to fulfill His purpose. This statement highlights the incarnation, where God took on human form. Jesus acknowledges that His time on earth is coming to an end, and He will return to the Father. This reflects the cyclical nature of His mission: coming from God, living among humanity, and then returning to God. It reassures His followers of His divine authority and the plan of salvation. The verse encapsulates the essence of Jesus' journey, illustrating His role as the mediator between God and humanity. It also serves as a reminder of the hope of eternal life and the promise of His return to the Father, which is central to Christian faith.
How to apply John 16:28 to your life
Understanding Jesus' journey from the Father to the world and back can deepen our faith. It reminds us of His purpose and the importance of our relationship with God. We can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is with us and that He has a plan for our lives as we navigate our own journeys.
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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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 16:28 mean about Jesus' origin?
In John 16:28, Jesus states that He came from the Father, emphasizing His divine origin. This means that He is not just a human teacher but is God incarnate, sent to fulfill a specific mission on earth. This highlights the belief in Jesus as the Son of God, who has a unique relationship with the Father.
Why does Jesus say He is leaving the world?
When Jesus mentions leaving the world in John 16:28, He is referring to His impending crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. This departure signifies the completion of His earthly mission to provide salvation. It reassures His followers that His departure is part of a divine plan, leading to His return to the Father.
How does John 16:28 relate to the concept of salvation?
John 16:28 encapsulates the essence of Jesus' mission, which is central to the Christian understanding of salvation. By coming from the Father, living among humanity, and returning to God, Jesus fulfills the role of mediator. His journey assures believers that through Him, they can have a restored relationship with God and the hope of eternal life.
What is the significance of Jesus' return to the Father?
Jesus' return to the Father, as stated in John 16:28, signifies the completion of His earthly mission and the assurance of His divine authority. It also highlights the promise of His eventual return and the hope of eternal life for believers. This return reinforces the belief in the ongoing relationship between Jesus and His followers, as He intercedes for them.
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