Free group study handout
John 16: Group Study Handout
How to use: read John 16 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
Jesus warns his disciples that they will face persecution, as people will expel them from synagogues and even kill them, believing they are serving God (vv. 1-3). He assures them that he tells them this now so they will remember later (vv.
Key verse
“In that day you will ask me no questions. Most certainly I tell you, whatever you may ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.”
John 16:23 (WEB)
Outline
- John 16:1–4 Warning Against Persecution
- John 16:5–7 Promise of the Holy Spirit
- John 16:8–11 Role of the Holy Spirit
- John 16:12–15 Further Revelations of Truth
- John 16:16–22 Sorrow Turned to Joy
- John 16:23–28 Power of Prayer in His Name
- John 16:29–33 Final Assurance and Peace
Discussion questions
- In v20, what does Jesus predict will happen to the disciples?
- What does Jesus say the Holy Spirit will do in v8?
- Jesus’ words about the disciples being ‘scattered’ in v32: what does this indicate about their faith?
- In v12, why does Jesus say the disciples cannot bear more information?
- How do you experience sorrow turning into joy when faced with difficult situations, as described in v21?
Go deeper
Passages that echo John 16: John 14, John 15, 1 John 5.
Before next time: read John 17.