John 16:33 KJV
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.King James Version
The same verse in modern English
I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have trouble; but cheer up! I have overcome the world.John 16:33, World English Bible (WEB)
KJV and WEB compared
The KJV says “In the world ye shall have tribulation,” looking ahead; the WEB says “In the world you have trouble,” in the present. Greek copies differ here between a future and a present verb, and both readings fit the disciples’ lives. Tribulation and trouble render the same Greek word for pressure or distress. The KJV’s “be of good cheer” becomes the WEB’s brisker “cheer up!” Both keep the closing words exactly alike: “I have overcome the world.”
Sitting with this verse
These are the last words Jesus speaks to his disciples before his long prayer in John 17. Just before, he warns that they will scatter and leave him alone, though the Father remains with him. He does not promise an easy road; trouble is stated plainly. Peace is located “in me,” and the victory is spoken of as already won, even before the cross. Whatever difficulty is in front of you, rest for a moment in that finished word.
Older words in this verse
- ye
- you (more than one)
- unto
- to
From John 16
Labor pains, Jesus told his grieving friends, give way to joy. What sorrow are you in the middle of? Ask him to hold it until joy is born.
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