John 16:32

"Look, an hour is coming and has already come when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and you will leave Me all alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.

Study Bible

Look
The Greek word here is "ἰδοὺ" (idou), often translated as "behold" or "see." It is a call to attention, urging the disciples to focus on the gravity of the moment. This word serves as a divine imperative, drawing the listener into a deeper awareness of the unfolding events. In the biblical narrative, such calls to attention often precede significant revelations or actions, emphasizing the importance of what Jesus is about to disclose.

an hour is coming
The phrase "an hour" (Greek: "ὥρα" - hōra) signifies a specific, divinely appointed time. In the Gospel of John, "hour" frequently refers to the time of Jesus' passion, death, and glorification. This prophetic statement underscores the inevitability and divine orchestration of the events leading to the crucifixion. It reflects the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, a theme deeply rooted in the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament.

and has already come
This phrase indicates the immediacy and present reality of the prophesied events. The use of the perfect tense in Greek ("ἤδη ἐλήλυθεν" - ēdē elēlythen) suggests that the process has already begun, emphasizing the certainty and unfolding nature of God's plan. It serves as a reminder of the divine timeline, which operates beyond human understanding, yet is perfectly orchestrated.

when you will be scattered
The Greek word "σκορπισθῆτε" (skorpisthēte) means to be dispersed or scattered. This scattering of the disciples fulfills the prophecy found in Zechariah 13:7, where the shepherd is struck, and the sheep are scattered. It highlights the human frailty and fear that will lead the disciples to abandon Jesus temporarily. This scattering is not just a physical dispersion but also a spiritual and emotional trial for the disciples.

each to his own home
This phrase indicates a return to individual safety and familiarity, a retreat from the collective mission. The Greek "εἰς τὰ ἴδια" (eis ta idia) suggests a withdrawal into personal spaces, symbolizing a momentary lapse in communal faith and mission. It reflects the human tendency to seek comfort in the familiar when faced with fear and uncertainty.

and you will leave Me all alone
The Greek "ἀφῆτε" (aphēte) means to leave or forsake. This poignant statement foreshadows the abandonment Jesus will experience, highlighting His isolation in the face of suffering. It echoes the lament of the psalmist in Psalm 22, a messianic psalm that Jesus will later quote on the cross. This abandonment underscores the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and His willingness to endure loneliness for humanity's redemption.

Yet I am not alone
Despite the impending desertion by His disciples, Jesus affirms His unity with the Father. The Greek "οὐκ εἰμὶ μόνος" (ouk eimi monos) emphasizes the divine companionship that sustains Him. This statement reflects the intimate relationship between Jesus and the Father, a central theme in the Gospel of John. It reassures believers of the constant presence of God, even in moments of profound isolation.

because the Father is with Me
The presence of the Father with Jesus is a testament to the unbroken divine fellowship and support. The Greek "ὅτι ὁ Πατὴρ μετ’ ἐμοῦ ἐστιν" (hoti ho Patēr met' emou estin) underscores the assurance and strength derived from this relationship. It serves as a model for believers, illustrating that divine presence is a source of comfort and strength in times of trial. This assurance is rooted in the covenantal faithfulness of God, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the events that are about to unfold, specifically His arrest and crucifixion.

2. The Disciples
The followers of Jesus who are being warned that they will soon be scattered and will abandon Him in His time of need.

3. The Father
God the Father, who Jesus acknowledges as being with Him even when He is physically alone.

4. The Event of Scattering
This refers to the imminent dispersion of the disciples when Jesus is arrested, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 13:7.

5. The Hour
This signifies the approaching time of Jesus' suffering, crucifixion, and the subsequent scattering of His disciples.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of Trials
Jesus warns His disciples of the coming trials, reminding us that challenges are a part of the Christian journey.

Human Weakness and Divine Strength
The disciples' scattering highlights human frailty, while Jesus' reliance on the Father exemplifies divine strength.

The Presence of God
Even in isolation, Jesus is not alone. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is always with them.

Prophecy Fulfilled
The scattering of the disciples fulfills prophecy, demonstrating the reliability of God's Word.

Courage in Loneliness
Jesus' example teaches us to find courage and strength in God's presence during times of loneliness and abandonment.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the scattering of the disciples reflect our own tendencies to falter in faith during difficult times?

2. In what ways can we cultivate an awareness of God's presence in our lives, especially when we feel alone?

3. How does understanding the fulfillment of prophecy in this passage strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

4. What practical steps can you take to rely on God's strength rather than your own during trials?

5. How can the assurance of God's presence, as seen in Jesus' confidence, impact your daily walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Zechariah 13:7
This Old Testament prophecy speaks of the shepherd being struck and the sheep being scattered, directly correlating to the events Jesus describes.

Matthew 26:31-32
Jesus predicts the scattering of the disciples, echoing the same message found in John 16:32.

Hebrews 13:5
This verse reassures believers of God's constant presence, similar to Jesus' confidence in the Father's presence.

Psalm 23:4
The psalmist's declaration of God's presence in the valley of the shadow of death parallels Jesus' assurance of the Father's presence.