TEXT: John 17:1-26
SERMON VIDEO: VIMEO // YOUTUBE
Robert Murray M'Cheyne once said, "If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me." In this passage, we read the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus. The appointed "hour" has come- Jesus will soon die. But first, he labors in prayer for his beloved people, and he does so with joy. The joyous prayer recorded here provides a window for us into the love of Christ and his work as our mediator. Understanding these words stirs our affection for Christ and empowers us to walk boldly in the face of fear.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Jesus first prays for himself (vv. 1–5). What do we learn about the work of Christ from this portion of his prayer?
He then prays for his disciples (vv. 6–19). What do we learn about Jesus’ concern and desire for them in this portion of his prayer?
Finally, Jesus prays for later believers (vv. 20–26). What do we learn about Jesus’ concern and desire for them in this portion of his prayer?
HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God
What does Jesus say he is not praying for? Why is this significant?
Jesus’ heart displayed toward sinners in this passage is one of love and joy. Do you believe that God loves you and wants you to be joyful? (v.13) Why/ why not?
Imagine the disciples recalling this prayer in later moments of their life; moments of discouragement and fear. How might this prayer of Jesus bring comfort to his disciples (including you) during difficult times?
HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
Describe the Christian’s relation to the world according to verses 6, 11, 14, 16, and 18. Does this describe you? Why/ why not?
Why is Christian Unity (v.21) so important to Jesus? What are potential threats to Christian Unity you see around you?
What does it mean for you to be sanctified in the truth? (v.17) In what ways are you growing in sanctification?